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Saturday 16 March 2019 | 9 Rajab 1440 www.thepeninsula.qa Volume 24 | Number 7832 | 2 Riyals

The big Ooredoo Your home internet will now be Supernet boost up to 5x faster for FREE! Terms & conditions apply Amir condemns terrorist attack on mosques in New Zealand

AGENCIES and a shotgun. One man was sent a cable of condolences to DOHA arrested and charged with Embassy urges Qatari Prime Minister of New Zealand, murder, and two other armed citizens to be cautious Jacinda Ardern. Deputy Prime Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin suspects were taken into custody. Minister and Minister of Foreign Hamad Al Thani sent yesterday a In the cable, H H the Amir THE PENINSULA/DOHA Affairs, H E Sheikh Mohammed cable of condolences to Governor- stressed the State of Qatar’s firm bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, con- We strongly condemn the heinous terrorist attack on General of New Zealand, Patsy stance on rejecting terrorism and The Embassy of the State of demned the terrorist attack in a Reddy, expressing his strong extremism, regardless of motives Qatar in Australia, on its tweet. “We strongly condemn the two mosques in #NewZealand. We wish Allah's mercy condemnation and denunciation and reasons. His Highness Twitter account, called upon heinous terrorist attack on two upon those who lost their lives and speedy recovery of the terrorist attack which took expressed condolences to the visiting Qatari citizens and mosques in New Zealand. We to the wounded #ChristchurchMosqueAttack place at two mosques in innocent victims, wishing a students in Christchurch, New wish Allah’s mercy upon those Christchurch, New Zealand. speedy recovery for the injured. Zealand, to take caution and who lost their lives and speedy places of worship and terrorise attack, which New Zealand At least 49 people were killed Deputy Amir H H Sheikh abide by the instructions recovery to the wounded.” peaceful people. The Ministry Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern in mass shootings at the Al Noor Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani issued by the New Zealand The Ministry of Foreign expressed the condolences of described as “one of the darkest and Linwood Mosques full of also sent a cable of condolences authorities. Affairs reiterated the State of Qatar to the victims’ families and days”. Expressing solidarity with worshippers attending Friday to Governor-General of New Qatar’s firm stance on rejecting to the Government and the people the victims, Turkish President prayers in an attack broadcast in Zealand, Patsy Reddy, on the violence and terrorism, of New Zealand and wished a Recep Tayyip Erdogan described horrifying, live video by an immi- victims of the terrorist attack Prime Minister and Interior regardless of motives and speedy recovery for the wounded. the incident as the “latest grant-hating white supremacist which took place at two mosques Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin reasons. The statement stressed Global condemnations have example of rising racism and wielding at least two assault rifles in Christchurch yesterday. Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani also the total refusal of Qatar to target poured in following Friday’s Islamophobia”. `P7 Qatar receives first batch of Apache aircraft QNA This batch comes as ARIZONA,USA part of a deal signed The State of Qatar has received by the Qatar Armed the first batch of Apache-QA, Forces to acquire during a ceremony held at the the latest — sixth headquarters of Boeing Defense generation — of the Systems in Arizona, US in the presence of Deputy Prime fighter aircraft. Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs, H E Dr Khalid to be completed by this type of bin Mohammed Al Attiyah. aircraft, which will be in active This batch comes as part of service to enhance the various a deal signed by the Qatar Armed types and configurations of the Forces to acquire the latest - sixth Qatari Amiri Air Force. generation - of the fighter aircraft. The agreement for the man- Precise combat characteristics and ufacture and delivery of Apache Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs, H E Dr Khalid bin Mohammed Al Attiyah, with other officials during the technological specifications have aircraft includes annexed hand over ceremony of the first batch of Apache-QA, at the headquarters of Boeing Defense Systems in Arizona in the US, yesterday. been added to the Qatari version, chapters covering the mainte- giving it the lead in the air. nance and training of the Qatari pilots, technicians and weapons Force has completed all the logistics and technical arrange- will enhance the country’s The Qatari fleet is expected crew consisting of managers. The Qatari Emiri Air infrastructure, construction, ments to receive the fleet, which defence capabilities. `P2 Decision on expanded World Cup will be taken in consultation Qatar, US sign MoU on cooperation in labour between Qatar and FIFA: SC QNA Fakhro and US Secretary of Labor ministry will work with the US and the report of the US State NEW YORK Alexander Acosta signed the MoU Department of Labor in the field of Department in this regard. QNA/DOHA in New York, to discuss areas of knowledge transfer and training on In a press statement, the US The State of Qatar and the US signed common interest and ways to best practices. He called on the US Labor Department said Qatar had The Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy a Memorandum of Understanding strengthen and develop them and minister and members of his min- undertaken a number of labour (SC) said that Qatar and the FIFA will continue working (MoU) for technical cooperation and share information to protect isterial team to visit Qatar in the near reforms in preparation for hosting together to discuss a potential expansion of the World support of the ongoing labour workers. future. the 2022 FIFA World Cup. In Cup in 2022 to 48 teams, while determining whether reform programme in Qatar, espe- H E Yousef bin Mohammed Al The Minister also met with the November 2017, the State of Qatar or not a viable operating model does exist and whether cially in the areas of labour Othman Fakhro hailed the per- US Ambassador-at-Large to Monitor signed a cooperation agreement it is in the best interest for the football and for the tour- inspection and the domestic manent partnership with the US to and Combat Trafficking in Persons, with the International Labor Organ- nament and for Qatar as the host nation. employment law. strengthen capacities and cooperate John Cotton Richmond. ization, confirming that cooperation The SC added that any decision on this matter will Minister of Administrative Devel- closely on important issues such as They discussed the compre- with the US Department of Labor be in consultation between FIFA and Qatar and with its opment, Labor and Social Affairs H workers’ rights and protection.The hensive efforts of Qatar in the fight will strengthen and support those consent. Yesterday, FIFA President Gianni Infantino E Yousef bin Mohammed Al Othman minister expressed hope that the against trafficking human beings, initiatives. described the decision to raise the number of teams par- ticipating in the 2022 World Cup finals as not easy, adding that the smatter should be studied carefully and in coop- eration with Qatar. “Until we reach that conclusion, we French envoy offers full support for 2022 World Cup will continue to work towards hosting a 32-team World Cup in 2022 hosted in the State of Qatar,” the SC SIDI MOHAMED everything that Qatar will ask from lot for the security preparation of statement said.“Our openness was based on our com- THE PENINSULA France in support we shall do it. 2006 Asian Games in Qatar. We are mitment to hosting a FIFA World Cup that benefits our We have a good experience in this ready to renew that participation region and its people in the best way possible. It has regard including hosting mega and in many other areas depending always our mission to ensure that this World Cup belongs The Ambassador of France to sporting events,” the Ambassador on Qatar’s need. We have a lot of to the entire Arab World and the Middle East. State of Qatar, Franck Gellet, said. experiences because we organize SC said it has been open to the process of dis- has said that France is eager to Speaking to The Peninsula many sports championships on cussing a potential expansion of the World Cup in see 2022 FIFA World Cup in recently, Franck Gellet said: “This regular basis.” 2022 to 48 teams since discussion started in Moscow Qatar a huge success and is event is essential for us because we “We like to work together with in 2018. Qatar dealt with the proposal positively and ready to provide any help in this are a football nation, and we are Qatar to benefit also from their expressed willingness to hear the views of various regard. eager to see 2022 FIFA World Cup experience and preparation for this parties involved. Qatar continued this trend during “I am tasked to make every- in Qatar a success.” big event for Olympic Games that the discussions of the council of the FIFA in Kigali in Franck Gellet, Ambassador of France thing possible for 2022 FIFA The Ambassador further said: France will host 2024,” he said. October 2018 until the current meeting of the council to Qatar. PIC: ABDUL BASIT/THE PENINSULA World Cup to be a success, so “You must remember we helped a `P3 in Miami. `P17 02 HOME SATURDAY 16 MARCH 2019 Qatar receives first batch of Apache aircraft

FROM PAGE 1 Air Forces. The ceremony was the project Brigadier (Pilot) In October 2018, the Chief of attended by Qatar’s Ambassador Ghanem Abdulhadi Al Shahwani Staff of the Armed Forces, H E to the US Sheikh Mishaal bin and Qatar’s Military Attaché to the Lieutenant-General (Pilot Hamad Al Thani, Commander of US Colonel Nawaf bin Mubarak TOP: A Qatari official receives a miniature version of Apache-QA in the presence of the Deputy Ghanem bin Shaheen Al-Ghanem, Qatar Emiri Air Force Major Al Thani in addition to a number Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs, H E Dr Khalid bin Mohammed Al Attiyah, at a inaugurated the production line General (Pilot) Mubarak bin of ranking Qatari Armed Forces ceremony at the headquarters of Boeing Defence Systems in Arizona, US. TOP RIGHT: H E the Deputy for the project to produce Apache Mohammed Al Kumait Al Khay- officers and a lineup of US Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs takes a look at the Apache-QA demonstration. helicopters for the Qatari Amiri areen, Commander in charge of officials. DICID condemns Qatari student tells UNHRC her suffering Qatar, Kazakhstan review ties New Zealand mosque attacks after expulsion from UAE university

QNA THE PENINSULA GENEVA She added that she tried to even better is to bring home DOHA communicate with the univer- the civilised values that these sity’s administration to enquire institutions hold. The Doha International Center A Qatari student who used to about her ability to resume her Before her speech, Al Meer for Interfaith Dialogue (DICID) study in the UAE discussed studies. She added that all she met with officials from the has expressed its deep sorrow yesterday the extent of her got was an e-mail saying she Office of the High Commis- and condemnation of terrorist suffering after she was expelled was transferred to the sioner for Human Rights to attack and mass shootings at arbitrarily from the Sorbonne Sorbonne Paris. present her complaint against two mosques in Christchurch, University Abu Dhabi following Al Meer wondered how the UAE and the Sorbonne Uni- New Zealand. the blockade imposed on the could such prestigious uni- versity after she was arbitrarily The Doha International State of Qatar in June of 2017. versity be used as a front by expelled. Center for Interreligious Dia- Jawaher Al Meer told the UAE to politicise education There were more than 200 logue in a statement issued yes- attendees of one of the and to abuse the rights of stu- Qatari students that attended terday urged states for call for meetings of the 40th session dents registered in it. universities in the UAE, Saudi love and tolerance to protect of the Human Rights Council She also issued a message Arabia, and Bahrain. They were and respect worship places and in Geneva that she travelled to to UAE officials saying that it all prevented from completing The Chairman of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan, religious leaders; to face the Doha on vacation after fin- was good to open the Sorbonne their education and were sent Nurlan Nigmatulin, met with the Ambassador of the State of Qatar causes of division, intolerance ishing her exams, and was University and the Louvre home after those countries and hatred. struck by the decisions of the Museum in Abu Dhabi, but severed relations with Qatar to Kazakhstan, Ahmed bin Ali Al Tamimi, in Astana on Thursday. The DICID reiterated its blockading countries. stressed that what would be and blockaded it. During the meeting, bilateral relations were discussed and ways deep condemnation of such of boosting them, as well as matters of common concern. despicable acts of racism which represent a clear violation of the principles of humanity and the values of religious tol- MOCI participates in National Scientific Research Week erance, approved by all laws and religions that call for respect of the sanctities and DOHA Ministry’s ongoing efforts to instil a culture of peace and coexistence. THE PENINSULA intellectual property rights in the local com- The DICID has asked the munity, by seeking to empower inventors and responsible authorities to fulfill The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) innovators to preserve their inventions. their role to protect Muslims has participated in the National Scientific During the event, the Ministry organised an and their worship places and Research Week 2019, which was held under the awareness campaign to educate preparatory take all necessary measures in theme ‘Promising Researchers for Qatar’. and secondary school students who showcased tracking down the perpetrators The event, which took place from March 10 innovative projects on intellectual property pro- and bring them to justice to to 13 at the Qatar National Convention Center, tection and the importance of registering intel- receive their fair punishment; was organised by the Ministry of Education and lectual property rights, copyrights or trademarks because such criminal acts Higher Education in partnership with the Qatar to protect creative ideas against serve only the enemies of National Research Fund, a member of Qatar infringements. humanity and extremists. Foundation for Science, Education and Com- Students were also briefed on the Ministry’s DICID also expressed its munity Development. initiatives in terms of adopting the highest inter- heartfelt sympathies to families, The Ministry’s participation in the event was national standards in the protection of intel- peoples and all those affected aimed at raising awareness of the importance lectual property rights as well as providing a by this cruel attack, and offered of intellectual property protection and promoting high-quality integrated electronic system to its deepest condolences to the innovation and creativity among students, inno- support and enable owners of trademarks, families and loved ones of the vators and inventors, in a bid to equip youth with inventors, innovators, authors and holders of An innovative project by students at the National Scientific Research individuals who lost their lives the practical and professional skills to protect neighboring rights to preserve their rights and Week 2019 at Qatar National Convention Center. in the terrorist attack. their inventions. The event falls in line with the protect their work and inventions. QatarDebate to hold 5th International Universities Debating Championship today

THE PENINSULA Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, human potential by fostering a DOHA Libya, Macedonia, Malaysia, The culture of discussion and debate, Maldives, Mauritius, Morocco, helping shape the global citizens DOHA: Under the patronage of Oman, Pakistan, Palestine, of the future and create intel- H E Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Russia, lectual leaders of tomorrow. Thani, Vice-Chairperson and CEO Serbia, Somalia, South Africa, A trial round will be held to of Qatar Foundation for South Korea, Spain, Sri Lanka, involve all participating teams. A Education, Science and Sudan, Sweden, Thailand, Tunisia, trial round involving all the teams Community Development (QF), Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom, participating in the championship the 5th International Universities USA, Vietnam, and Yemen. The without recording any scores will Debating Championship, championship aims to strengthen take place on the first day. organised by the QatarDebate educational and cultural relations Mohammed Salman, Debate Centre at Qatar National among the participating countries Coach, has pointed out that the Convention Centre (QNCC), will and open up opportunities to trial round is aimed to allow the kick off today. strengthen the relationship and teams get in the mood for the Fifty two countries including urges sharing experiences among championship before the actual 15 Arabic-speaking and 37 non- Arabic-speaking and non-Arabic rounds begin since some of the Arabic speaking will participate speaking youth. debaters are not aware of the in the championship. They include It also aims to raise the open atmosphere of the championship Algeria, Austria, Australia, discussion standards, secure and its rounds and therefore they The delegation from Iran at the venue of the International Universities Debating Championship. Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Belgium, freedom of expression in the Arab will not be able to control their Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, China, world and the world as a whole feelings. Czech Republic, France, Germany, and respect the difference of “The trial round was found to psychologically. The trial round selection of competing teams, and their comments, while the Indonesia, India, Iran, Iraq, opinion. The championship sup- be necessary for the participants steps will be similar to the actual identifying the house, the oppo- only difference is no scores are Jordan, Kosovo, ports the mission of QF to unlock to encourage and prepare them rounds in terms of the random sition and the adjudication panel recorded,” explained Salman. SATURDAY 16 MARCH 2019 HOME 03 Qatar committed to protecting rights of women

QNA Al Abdullah said that the State of Qatar has social fields, and eliminate all support women. One of them 2018-2022 focus on enhancing NEW YORK made a great effort to improve the status of manifestations of discrimination, was the permanent constitution human capital given they are the pointing to legislative reform that of the country in 2004, which main tool of development. The State of Qatar has affirmed Qatari women by taking a number of measures serves this purpose. said that women and men were She also discussed the steps its commitment to implementing that enable it in all political, economic and The mismanaged community equals legally. She highlighted taken by the State of Qatar to its international obligations social fields, and eliminate all manifestations negatively affects women and that equality is the founding promote human development pertaining to international of discrimination, pointing to legislative reform activates their role. She also principal of all Qatari through a comprehensive and conventions on women which it highlighted the belief of the State legislation. integrated health care system, has ratified. that serves this purpose. of Qatar that sustainable devel- The State of Qatar has taken quality education and training, The State has established the opment can never be achieved important steps to put this prin- an efficient and committed Ministry of Administrative Devel- without participation from ciple into practice and to elim- workforce, sound social devel- opment, Labor and Social Affairs nation of All Forms of Discrimi- the Beijing Declaration and women. She then shed light on inate discriminatory practices opment through social pro- pursuant to Amiri Decree No. (6) nation against Women. Platform for Action: Exchange of a number of policies the state has against women and improve tection, security and public of 2016 with a special This came in the statement best practices in preparation for undertaken to enhance the eco- their situation in all fields. She safety, gender equality and eco- department for family affairs, as readout by the Director of the the Beijing+25 review and nomic, cultural, and social status discussed in that regard the nomic empowerment women. a national mechanism to propose Department of Family Affairs at appraisal’ of women. adoption of Qatar National In concluding her remarks, public policies for the the ministry, Najat Al Abdullah, Al Abdullah said that the Al Abdullah noted that, in Vision 2030 through Amiri Al Abdullah said that the State of advancement of women to to a special dialogue session as State of Qatar has made a great order to make progress on decision no. 44 of 2008 which Qatar established, through a enable them to play their social, part of the 63rd session of the effort to improve the status of Beijing declaration that was focused on women’s issue. She ministerial decision no.15 of economic and political role, and Commission on the Status of Qatari women by taking a adopted in the World Conference also said the adoption of the 2017, the National Committee for to monitor the implementation Women. The session was entitled number of measures that enable on Women in 1995, the state National Strategic Development Combatting Human of the Convention on the Elimi- ‘Accelerating implementation of it in all political, economic and issued a number of laws to plans of 2011-2016 and Trafficking. Qatar makes progress in Call to increase global efforts to reach narcotic drugs-free world

QNA United Nations Commission on judicial and human rights population with evidence-based biobanking and genomics VIENNA Narcotic Drugs that took place sectors in the formulation and treatment and rehabilitation in Vienna. implementation of preventive services. FAZEENA SALEEM The State of Qatar called on the Al Hajri stressed that The initiatives. The State of Qatar then THE PENINSULA international community to State of Qatar is proud of its He said that the State of called on member states of the compound its efforts in order to record in the fight against drugs, Qatar received in October 2018 United Nations and all donors The International Biobanking reach a world free of narcotic as it implements a compre- the International Narcotics to provide further support to the Conference 2019, will be an drugs, stressing its commitments hensive, integrated and bal- Control Board (INCB) mission. Commission on Narcotic Drugs, important opportunity to review to international agreements on anced strategy, supervised by a The report of the Annual Com- the United Nations Office on Qatar’s progress in the field of the issue, taking into consider- national committee for com- mission for 2018 recorded Drugs and Crime and to the biobanking and genomics in order ation the principal of sover- batting narcotic drugs chaired Qatar’s commitment to imple- International Narcotics Control to make personalised medicine a eignty. by HE the Prime Minister and menting international drug Board to enhance their central reality for the people of Qatar. This came in the speech of Minister of Interior. control conventions and role in the implementation of Qatar Biobank, a member of the State of Qatar readout by He noted that the strategy is ensuring the availability of con- joint international undertakings, Qatar Foundation, will bring Charge d’Affaires of the state’s built upon prevention, com- trolled substances for medical as well as to increase technical together local and international permanent mission to interna- munity protection, law and scientific purposes through support to States Developing experts in biobanking and person- tional organizations Abdullah enforcement, attention to drug its health services. countries to help them alised medicine for the conference, and Environmental Repositories bin Nasser Al Fuhaid Al Hajri victims, and the involvement of The report also commended implement their drug prevention which will take place from March (ISBER). “It will provide a unique during the 62nd session of the the health, social, economic, Qatar’s efforts to provide the policies. 25 to 27 at Sheraton Grand Doha opportunity for scientists, Resort & Convention Hotel. researchers, industry experts, and “The conference is unique in students to learn about the latest many ways. It will discuss quality developments in the sector. Stu- Qatar stresses need to ensure French envoy offers full in biobanking, which is a new topic dents in Qatar will also have a for everyone in Qatar. The con- chance to exhibit their research to sustainable development support for 2022 Cup ference will make it possible for leading experts,” Mohammed Al FROM PAGE 1 experts in Qatar to share their Dosari, added. QNA be achieved by developing and imple- ideas with international experts, The wide-ranging sessions NAIROBI menting strategies, initiatives, action and learn from each other,” and presentations at the con- plans and programs to achieve the 2030 “What is interesting in Qatar is the fact that they Mohammed Al Dosari (pictured), ference are focused on reviewing The State of Qatar stressed the need to Sustainable Development Plan and always choose the best technologies, the best com- Head of Communications and Par- quality in biobanking and beyond; make the necessary efforts to ensure adapt it to the national circumstances petencies, Qataris are very open minded, always ticipant Outreach at Qatar the role of biobanks in healthcare; environmental sustainability at all of each country, in a way that achieves ready to go for the best and the newest,” the French Biobank, told The Peninsula. the importance of population national, regional and international the principle of shared responsibility Ambassador observed. The three-day conference will biobanks; the use of big data and levels to ensure benefit for present and for preserving the environment and Ambassador Gellet said: “We are in touch with be held under the theme ‘Quality artificial intelligence in medical future generations. pushing the world towards a better and Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC), and Matters: A Global Discussion in research; and the importance of Assistant Undersecretary for envi- sustainable future. we are ready to do everything that is requested from Qatar.’ It is being organised in part- international collaboration. ronmental affairs at the Ministry of He said that it was important to pre- us to make this big event a great success. We will be nership with the European and “This is a major step in our Municipality and Environment Ahmed serve the environment for future gen- more than happy to see 2022 FIFA World Cup in Middle Eastern Society for Biop- efforts to make very important Mohammed Al Sada was speaking today erations by ensuring there is pollution, Qatar, Qatar is really a friend to France.” reservation and Biobanking medical research possible in Qatar. at the United Nations Environment Pro- by preserving biodiversity, and to Replying a question about French companies (ESBB), and supported by BBMRI- Researchers will now have a better gramme’s fourth UN Environment commit to achieving sustainable devel- working on construction projects, he said that French ERIC, a European research infra- chance to conduct research to help Assembly that is taking place in Kenyan opment, as well as the consolidation of companies were directly involved in the construction structure for biobanking, and the prevent major diseases in the long- capital Nairobi. He said that the goals environmental sustainability of Qatar Rail. “There are 200 French companies International Society for Biological term,” said Al Dosari. of having a sustainable environment will practices. working in Qatar in different sectors,” he added. Cashback for Spotlight on women at Al Markhiya Gallery expo Ooredoo Money “This exhibition is about Eve of different ages negative images of photos, and nationalities but sharing the same feelings- through this I wanted to give customers sometimes fear, sometimes confusion on what people space to imagine because we miss seeing things in a neg- THE PENINSULA the future holds, and I wish I could transport ative photographic image,” she DOHA these emotions through these paintings,” explained. Egyptian artist Rasha Alem told The Peninsula. 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Both Hamas, the Islamist movement that runs Gaza, and Israel said its aircraft had struck that runs Gaza, and Islamic Jihad denied they were dozens of Hamas targets in the Islamic Jihad denied behind the rocket fire towards Tel Gaza Strip overnight in response they were behind the Aviv. to rockets from the Palestinian rocket fire towards But Israel’s military said they enclave, including rare fire toward were launched by Hamas. its economic capital Tel Aviv. Tel Aviv. Israeli Israel has long said it holds The escalation followed media reported the Hamas responsible for all vio- weeks of growing tensions and military’s preliminary lence from Gaza, controlled by came at an especially sensitive the group since 2007. time ahead of Israel’s April 9 assessment was that US Secretary of State Mike elections. the rockets were fired Pompeo said the Gaza militants As the polls approach, Prime by mistake during attacking Israel were “armed and Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is maintenance work. financed by their puppet masters widely believed to want to avoid in Tehran”. “We stand by our ally. Palestinians inspect wreckage after Israeli fighter jets carried out airstrike towards a building a fourth war in the Gaza Strip Israel has the right to protect its belonging to Hamas, in Gaza City, Gaza, yesterday. since 2008 — but the exchange citizens,” tweeted Pompeo, who of fire again showed the risks. enclave’s health ministry said, is due to travel soon to Tel Aviv. including a complex allegedly Hamdi, 22, who works in a Almost daily exchanges Quiet returned to Gaza and while no Israelis were reported Yesterday, Israeli media used by the group to coordinate bakery in Gaza, said “since the between Israel and the Pales- Israel yesterday morning. injured. Explosions could be reported the military’s prelim- operations in the occupied West morning very few people have tinian territory have threatened UN and Egyptian officials heard throughout the night in inary assessment was that the Bank. Another was “the main come compared to normal a wider escalation in hostilities were in contact with both sides Gaza and fireballs lit the sky. rockets were fired by mistake manufacturing site of standard- Friday mornings. People are over the past few weeks. “to prevent the situation from In the bustling coastal city of during maintenance work. A mil- grade rockets in the Gaza Strip”, afraid of bombs —like in a war.” It comes as the one-year spinning out of control”, a source Tel Aviv, sirens wailed late on itary spokesman declined to an underground location, it said. Gaza residents reported a anniversary of mass protests and with knowledge of the discus- Thursday in scenes reminiscent comment. A security source in Gaza number of rockets fired back at clashes along the Gaza-Israel sions said. of the 2014 war between Israel Islamic Jihad said yesterday said dozens of strikes targeted Israel in response. border fence approaches on Organisers of weekly Friday and Gaza militants. that Palestinian fighters would bases belonging to both Hamas Sirens rang out in southern March 30. An informal truce protests along the Gaza border Rocket fire toward Israel’s hold fire if Israel did the same. and Islamic Jihad. Israel early yesterday and the between Hamas and Israel had fence, which have been accom- southern communities near the A delegation from Egypt, A position belonging to Israeli military said it identified led to relative calm, but recent panied by violence, announced blockaded coastal territory is which has acted as mediator Hamas’s military wing, near its four “launches” from Gaza. weeks have seen another uptick they would be cancelled — the common, but Tel Aviv is rarely between Israel and Hamas, was leader Ismail Haniya’s family Three were intercepted by in violence. Netanyahu warned first such move since they began targeted. Police said they found in Gaza before the strikes and home on the outskirts of Gaza missile defence systems, it said. on Sunday that Israel would not nearly a year ago. remains of one rocket in an unin- reportedly left after warnings. City, was damaged, with rubble Since Thursday night, hesitate to launch a “large-scale Four Palestinians were habited area “in central Israel”, Israel said its aircraft hit strewn across the road, a jour- around 10 rockets were fired operation” in Gaza if wounded in the Gaza strikes, the with media reports saying the around 100 Hamas targets, nalist said. from Gaza. provoked. Erdogan renews verbal Mauritanian leader reshuffles attack against Israel cabinet before elections ANATOLIA AP tweeting this week that Istanbul NOUAKCHOTT TURKEY “is actually a city called Con- stantinople! The capital of the Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Abdelaziz yesterday ordered The war of words between Byzantine empire and center of a partial government reshuffle, according to an official statement. Turkey and Israel continued orthodox Christianity for more Yahya Ould Haddine, a former prime minister, was appointed yesterday when Turkish Pres- than a thousand years before defence minister, replacing Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, who is ident Recep Tayyip Erdogan Turkish occupation!” reportedly planning to contest upcoming presidential elections. rebuked the son of Israeli Prime Erdogan hit back at Yair A leading member of Mauritania’s ruling Union for the Republic Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Netanyahu calling him party, Ould Ghazouani recently announced his intention to run in for suggesting that Istanbul - “immoral” at an election rally. the polls. In January, Ould Abdelaziz announced that he would not formerly Constantinople - was “You occupied the whole of run in elections, dismissing the notion of constitutional changes to under Turkish occupation. Palestine!” he said. “If the world President of Turkey and the leader of Turkey’s ruling Justice and allow him to run for a third term in office. The Turkish and Israeli is looking for a country that Development (AK) Party, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, greets the crowd According to Mauritania’s constitution, presidents are limited leaders have been trading barbs oppresses, it’s Israel. If they are during a campaign rally for March 31 local elections in Gaziantep, to only two terms in office. this week, with Netanyahu crit- searching for a terror state that Turkey, yesterday. While a date for the poll has yet to be announced, it is expected icising the imprisonment of too is Israel.” sometime before Ould Abdelaziz’s second term expires in June of journalists in Turkey. Erdogan Israel and Turkey were once with Netanyahu. Interviewed on of disrespecting holy sites in this year. brandished the Israeli leader a close allies, but diplomatic rela- Turkey’s Haberturk television on Jerusalem. Mauritania’s official electoral commission typically announces “thief” and a “tyrant” in ref- tions between the two have Thursday, Erdogan said Ben- The latest exchange of words election dates shortly before polling day. erence to corruption allegations soured in the past decade. Under jamin Netanyahu was “walking started Tuesday when Erdogan’s Yesterday’s cabinet shake-up also saw Transport Minister Amal and Israeli policies toward Erdogan, Turkey has become a around with this stain” of cor- spokesman called Netanyahu a Bent Mouloud replaced by outgoing Water Resources Minister Islam Palestinians. vocal critic of Israeli policies ruption. Erdogan also accused racist for saying Israel was the Ould Sidi Mokhtar. Netanyahu’s son, Yair dealing with Palestinians, Israel of jailing 10,000 Pales- nation-state only of the Jewish Alnaha bint Meknes, meanwhile, was granted the water resources Netanyahu, jumped into the fray, sparking frequent verbal feuds tinian women and children and people. portfolio. 20 dead in Nigeria building collapse Crowds throng Algerian cities to demand President step down AP week ago, when hundreds of seen Bouteflika in public since he country. Students, teachers, The protesters want to send AP/LAGOS ALGIERS thousands took to the streets to suffered a 2013 stroke, and many judges and unions were among a mass message that they are demand an end to Bouteflika’s are angry at a power structure those joining Friday’s protests. rejecting Bouteflika’s attempt this Twenty people are confirmed With Algerian flags on their backs, 20-year rule. widely seen as corrupt. Millions A group of young women week to defuse Algeria’s political dead in the school building that people of all ages marched Chanting “Bouteflika, Get Out” struggle to make ends meet delighted in taking selfies with crisis. Bouteflika ceded to pro- collapsed in Nigeria on yesterday through Algeria’s capital and other slogans, diverse groups despite the country’s gas wealth. smiling police officers. Shops testers’ demands that he abandon Wednesday, and most of them and other cities amid heavy converged on three public plazas The warm spring sun seemed along the march routes turned a plans for a fifth term, and are children, an official said. security for what could be decisive that have become focal points for to encourage the protesters, who brisk profit selling Algerian flags promised reforms addressing Forty-three other people protests against longtime leader an exceptional, month-long public were so numerous that it was and pizza or honey-filled pas- concerns of frustrated, struggling were rescued, Lagos State Abdelaziz Bouteflika. uprising against the country’s difficult to move on some streets tries. The diverse crowd included youth. But he also cancelled the Health Commissioner Jide Idris The crowds packing leafy shadowy leadership. Their numbers in Algiers. Algerian media women with and without head- April 18 presidential election, a told The Associated Press. The boulevards throughout central surged after midday Muslim reported protests in several other scarves, and fathers carrying move that critics fear could allow disaster occurred in the heart Algiers appeared bigger than a prayers. Algerians have barely cities around Africa’s biggest children on their shoulders. him to cling to power. of Nigeria’s commercial capital. Officials have said the three-story residential building had been marked for demo- Ethiopian Airlines says analysis lition and that the school was operating illegally on the top two floors. It is still not clear how of flight recorders begins many people were inside when it collapsed. Rescue crews halted AP An airline spokesman has came from 35 countries. their search on Thursday, saying HEJERE, ETHIOPIA said the pilot was given per- Countries including the they had reached the building’s mission to return. But the plane United States have grounded the foundation without finding any Analysis of the flight recorders crashed minutes later outside Boeing 737 Max 8 as the U.S.- other victims. Some anguished of the crashed Ethiopian Airlines Addis Ababa, killing all 157 on based company faces the chal- families protested and sifted plane has begun, the airline said board. lenge of proving the jets are safe through the rubble for any sign yesterday, and The New York French authorities now have to fly amid suspicions that faulty of their children. Times reported that the pilot the plane’s flight data and voice software might have contributed Building collapses are all requested permission “in a recorders for analysis. They have to two crashes that killed 346 too common in the West panicky voice” to return to the said it was unclear whether data people in less than six months. African nation, where new con- airport shortly after takeoff as could be retrieved. The data The decision to send the Search on for belongings and debris for forensic analysis at the crash struction often goes up without the plane dipped up and down recorder appeared to show flight recorders to France was site, at Hama Quntushele village, near Bishoftu, Ethiopia, yesterday. regulatory oversight. Official sharply and appeared to gain damage. Ethiopian Airlines said seen as a rebuke to the United moved through the neigh- startling speed. an Ethiopian delegation led by States, which held out longer Administration said regulators Indonesia in October, killing 189 borhood on Thursday, marking The report cited “a person its chief accident investigator than most other countries in had new data from the satellite- people. The data show both other derelict buildings for who reviewed air traffic com- had arrived in Paris. grounding the jets. The US based tracking that showed the planes flew with erratic altitude demolition. Adeyemo Sunday, munications” from Sunday’s In Ethiopia, officials started National Transportation Safety movements of Ethiopian Airlines changes that could indicate the the father of twins, mourned flight saying controllers noticed taking DNA samples from Board sent three investigators to Flight 302 were similar to those pilots struggled to control the one of his sons. The other was the plane was moving up and victims’ family members to assist help French authorities. of Lion Air Flight 610. That flight aircraft. Both crews tried to pulled out alive, he said. down by hundreds of feet. in identifying remains. The dead The US Federal Aviation crashed into the Java Sea off return to the airport. SATURDAY 16 MARCH 2019 ASIA 05 Priyanka to begin steamer poll campaign on Monday

IANS — by steamer as well as car. The Congress has to Bhadohi’s Kantit area and Sheetla Mandir and meet women a Holi Milan programme. LUCKNOW Priyanka’s journey will com- date announced 26 interact with people there. groups there. She will then leave for Delhi mence from Prayagraj on Monday candidates for Uttar The Congress leader will From Sheetla temple, Pri- on Wednesday evening from With less than a month to go for and conclude at Varanasi’s Assi Pradesh. However, then again be back to steamer yanka will again take the Varanasi airport. the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, Con- Ghat and Dashashwamedh ghat the party has not ride from Mirzapur. She will steamer ride till Ramnagar and The Congress is contesting gress General Secretary and on Wednesday evening. announced Priyanka’s interact with advocates at interact with the fishermen com- the Lok Sabha polls alone in eastern Uttar Pradesh in-charge She will take the steamer ride Kachahri Ghat in the district and munity there. She will also visit Uttar Pradesh which sends 80 Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will kick from Chhatnag in Prayagraj on candidature. Her then visit Bhatauli village and the house of former Prime Min- MPs to the Lok Sabha. The Sama- off a three-day poll campaign March 18 and en route meet brother Rahul Gandhi meet people there. ister Lal Bahadur Shastri in Var- jwadi Party, Bahujan Samaj Party from her great grandfather Jawa- elderly citizens of Dumduma in is contesting from Thereafter, the newly- anasi’s Ramnagar before arriving and the Rashtriya Lok Dal are harlal Nehru’s birthplace Prayagraj and the family Amethi, while her appointed General Secretary will at Assi Ghat by the steamer. contesting in alliance. Prayagraj to Prime Minister members of Mahesh Raj Yadav, mother will contest reach Chandrika Devi temple There she will interact with the The Congress has to date Narendra Modi’s parliamentary who was killed in Jammu and from Rae Bareli seat. and interact with people after local people, people from Jain announced 26 candidates for Uttar constituency Varanasi by a Kashmir’s Pulwama on February offering her prayers there. communities and offer prayers Pradesh. However, the party has steamer on March 18. 14 in a suicide bombing. After leaving Chandrika Devi at Vishwanath temple. not announced Priyanka’s candi- According to Congress Priyanka Gandhi, who is also visit Vindhyachal temple in temple, Priyanka will reach After performing rituals at the dature. Her brother is contesting leaders, during her three-day considered as second most Mirzapur and meet the carpet Devri in Mirzapur and interact Vishwanath temple in Varanasi, from Amethi, while her mother programme, she will cover a dis- important face in Congress after weavers before a night halt there. with local villagers there before she will again take the steamer will contest from Rae Bareli seat. tance of over 140km through her brother and party President She will commence her arriving at Chunar for the night ride to Dashashwamedh ghat. The seven-phased Lok Sabha four districts of the state — Rahul Gandhi, will be back to her journey on Tuesday from Vind- halt. In the last leg of her three- After that, she will leave for the elections is scheduled from April Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad), steamer ride from Rampur ghat hyachal and visit the Dargah of day journey on Wednesday, she Congress office in Varanasi and 11 to May 19. The counting of Bhadohi, Mirzapur and Varanasi in Bhadohi. From there, she will Maulana Ismail Chisti in will visit via road Varanasi’s interact with party workers during votes will take place on May 23. Hyderabad man shot Jet Airways pilots seek government at in NZ massacre help to recover

IANS Sayeeduddin and other family unpaid salaries HYDERABAD members were worried over Farhaj’s well-being. REUTERS A man from Hyderabad was crit- Owaisi also shared the NEW DELHI ically injured and another was details of Ahsan’s family missing in the horrific massacre members with Swaraj and Cash-strapped Jet Airways’ at one of the two mosques in requested her to provide imme- pilots union has for the first New Zealand’s Christchurch city diate assistance to facilitate their time sought government help yesterday. travel to New Zealand. to recover pending salaries and Ahmed Iqbal Jehangir, who Meanwhile, a report from dues from the airline, saying was at the Al Noor Mosque for Wellington said at least 9 people pleas to management have Friday prayers, was injured and of Indian nationality or Indian fallen on deaf ears. taken to hospital, his brother origin are missing after the The National Aviators Guild, Mohammed Khursheed Jehangir shootings, High Commissioner which represents the majority said here. “My brother was shot Sanjiv Kohli said. “As per of Jet’s pilots, has written to the in his chest. A video I received updates received from multiple labour minister to ask for help shows him lying on a stretcher,” sources, there are 9 missing in getting the airline to pay out- Khursheed said. persons of indian nationality/ standing salaries and allow- Ahmed, settled in New origin. Official confirmation still ances immediately, plus Protest against climate change Zealand for 15 years, runs a awaited. Huge crime against interest. “This situation is Hyderabadi restaurant near the humanity. Our prayers with their leading to extreme tension and Students under a shade made from used plastic bottles as they take part in a global protest against Al Noor Mosque. His family families,” Kohli tweeted. frustration amongst our climate change, in Gurugram, India, yesterday. members were safe. “My deep gratitude to members, hardly an ideal situ- An anxious Khursheed was members of the community in ation for pilots in cockpit,” waiting for more information Christchurch who are working captain Karan Chopra, pres- from New Zealand. He wants to through the night to get updates ident of the union, said. rush to New Zealand to be with for us on the victims of today’s Jet has delayed payments to Air India flies 5,000 security personnel to J&K his brother and appealed to the dastardly attack. Cant be a better its pilots, suppliers and lessors for Indian government for help. example than this of dedication months and defaulted on loans IANS flights every night full of security to be added for the army on the Hyderabad MP Asaduddin and solidarity.” after racking up more than $1bn NEW DELHI personnel leaving for Srinagar Delhi-Leh-Chandigarh route. Owaisi has tweeted to Minister The Indian High Commission in debt. The airline is in talks with from New Delhi. Air India is also Sources said that the Union of External Affairs Sushma in New Zealand said any Indian the country’s banks for a rescue Air India has ferried around operating the 787 Dreamliner Home Ministry had requisitioned Swaraj, urging her to expedite caught up in the Christchurch deal and emergency funds. 5,000 army and Central Armed from Kolkata to fly soldiers in. the aircraft which were pulled out the visa process. mosque massacre and needing Last August the pilots were Police Forces (CAPF) personnel There are now Delhi-Leh- of the normal schedule to operate Another man from assistance could contact it. “We given a staggered schedule of to Srinagar in special night flights Delhi flights twice a week char- special night flights to Srinagar. Hyderabad was also reported are shocked to hear about the payments for salaries but Jet has in recent weeks as boots on the tered for Border Security Force After the February 14 Pulwama missing. Farhaj Ahsan had gone shooting in Christchurch. Any not kept up with them, the union ground are being strengthened (BSF) troopers apart from a sep- attack, the Centre had come under to the same mosque for prayers Indians needing assistance said, adding that the airline still in Jammu and Kashmir after the arate flight for the army on the criticism for not flying the soldiers and was listed missing after the should contact us at 021803899 owes the pilots most of their Pulwama attack. same route. Another regular Air as road transport made them vul- attack by gunmen. or 021850033,” the mission salary for December and all of There are at least three India chartered service is going nerable to terror attacks. His father Mohammed tweeted. January and February. Y S Vivekananda Reddy Fiery political content arriving murdered, say police on social media IANS uncle of YSR Congress party president KADAPA Y S Jaganmohan Reddy. He is survived IANS by his wife and a daughter. NEW DELHI YSR Congress party leader and former The former MP, who was alone at state Minister Y S Vivekananda Reddy his house, was found dead in a pool of Political parties have gone 24/7 was murdered, police said after prelim- blood in the bathroom when Krishna on creating election-special inary inquiry. Reddy along with housemaid entered content like issue-based Hours after the 68-year-old former the house from the rear door after memes, jokes, GIFs and short- MP was found dead at his home in Puliv- there was no response to the knocks format videos to bombard endula town of Kadapa district, police on the main door. The personal various social media platforms said they were treating it as a murder assistant said Vivekananda had head and woo millions of voters. case and investigating from all angles. injuries. As the rear door was open, the According to social media Kadapa Superintendent of Police family suspected foul play. experts, while issues like unem- Rahul Dev Sharma told reporters that YSR Congress party has demanded ployment, farmer distress, Rafale there were seven injury marks including probe by the Central Bureau of Investi- deal and demonetisation would four on the head. The injuries were gation (CBI) into the murder. dominate the social media inflicted by a sharp object. He said the Chief Minister N Chandrababu content for the opposition, the crime scene and the clues indicate that Naidu held a meeting with Director Modi-led NDA government is it was murder. General of Police R P Thakur and other aiming to highlight the Balakot He constituted a Special Investi- top police officials in Amaravati. He air strike and poverty alleviation. gation Team (SIT) to probe the case. “We directed them to conduct a thorough The bombardment is likely to have collected fingerprints from the probe and ensure that the guilty were begin from next week and would scene and will match the same with apprehended at the earliest. only gain momentum as the those of the suspects,” the SP said. Vivekananda Reddy was elected voting process inches closer. The police suspect that as the rear from Kadapa Lok Sabha constituency The trend to reach out to door was open, somebody entered the on Congress ticket in 1999 and 2004. He their voters via social media house and killed him on the intervening was twice elected to the Andhra Pradesh platforms has caught up with night of Thursday and Friday. Assembly (1989, 1994) from Pulivendula, many politicians, the recent Earlier, it was believed that a family stronghold. ones being Bahujan Samajwadi Vivekananda Reddy died of cardiac Vivekananda was also elected to Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati arrest. However, on a complaint by his Andhra Pradesh Legislative Council in and Congress General Secretary personal assistant, the police registered 2009 and served as Agriculture Minister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra who are a case of unnatural death under section in Kiran Kumar Reddy cabinet. now on Twitter. The game is set 174 of Code of Criminal Procedure and He remained loyal to Congress when to go dirty, with more and more took up investigation. Jaganmohan Reddy raised a banner of politicians taking jibes and After an autopsy at a hospital, the revolt against the party for not picking trading barbs on social media body was handed over to the family. him as the successor of his father and platforms, which will then be Vivekananda Reddy was younger Chief Minister Y S Rajasekhara Reddy reworked upon by creative brother of former Andhra Pradesh Chief following his death in a helicopter crash agencies to flood Facebook, Minister Y S Rajasekhara Reddy and in 2009. WhatsApp and Twitter. 06 ASIA SATURDAY 16 MARCH 2019

Survey: Majoirty Imran’s ire halts pay raise for Punjab lawmakers of Pakistanis

INTERNEWS “I am extremely think PM doing LAHORE disappointed by Breakdown of the new perks, salaries a good job decision of Punjab The exorbitant increase in the Assembly to raise INTERNEWS CHIEF MINISTER INTERNEWS salaries and perks of Punjab law- LAHORE ISLAMABAD makers has been halted as the pays and privileges Salary: Up from Rs39,000 and Rs35,000 to governor has decided not to sign of MPAs, Ministers On Wednesday, the lawmakers in Punjab Rs300,000 and Rs180,000 per month A new nationwide poll of Paki- the bill and make it a law for the and esp CM. Once amended the Punjab Ministers (Salaries, Sumptuary allowance: Up from Rs20,000 stanis by the International time being after the Prime Min- prosperity returns to Allowance and Privileges) Act 1974 and 1975 to to Rs50,000 per month Republican Institute’s (IRI) ister’s tweet expressing dis- give themselves a pay raise. Here is what the Perks and privileges of a former chief min- Center for Insights in Survey pleasure at the Punjab Assem- Pak such a move cld new increment looks like: ister (referred to as Section 21-A in the Research reveals strong bly’s move. be justified, but now, Basic salary: Up from Rs18,000 to Rs80,000. amendment): Two SUVs not less than 2500cc approval ratings for the new The bill, enjoying support of when we do not have However, Section 3 of the Act states that a with five security guards in each vehicle, government, concerns over the both the treasury and opposition member will be ineligible to draw the salary if: excluding the driver, One personal secretary, state of economy, and confi- benches in a rare show of unity, resources to provide The person doesn’t attend 3/4th of the total sit- two junior clerks. dence in the July 2018 elections, easily sailed through and was basic amenities to tings held in a month; Under detention or con- A 1300cc car with driver. reports the foreign media. passed within minutes on all our people, this viction in an offence Rs10,000 telephone allowance. According to the IRI, the Wednesday. It prescribed a six- is untenable,” the Daily allowance and conveyance: Up from A government maintained residence of survey was conducted on behalf fold increase in the salary of the Rs1,000 per day to Rs2,000 per day. Conveyance “adequate standards in Lahore subject to the of the Center for Insights in Chief Minister, three-fold raise Premier said in his increased from Rs600 to Rs1,000 per day. condition that the former chief minister does Survey Research and its results for the Speaker, Deputy Speaker tweet. Travelling allowance: Up from Rs120,000 not own one in Lahore”. were announced on March 14. and ministers and a two-fold to 200,000 per annum However, yesterday, in a press conference, “Poor economic conditions are increase for MPAs, besides be restricted to just three months. House rent and utilities: Up from Rs29,000 Shahbaz Gill, the chief minister’s spokesperson, a significant source of anxiety enhancing their perks. The rules empower the gov- to Rs50,000 per month rent. Utilities allowance rubbished that Section 21-A had been added to for Pakistanis,” said Johanna Irritated at the move, Prime ernor to the send any bill back up from Rs6,000 to Rs20,000 per month. the final bill passed. Kao, IRI Regional Director for Minister Imran Khan used his to the assembly for reconsidering Office maintenance allowance: Up from Interestingly, Punjab’s law minister admitted Asia. Twitter account to express dis- it. But if the house passes the bill Rs10,000 to Rs15,000 per month. to reporters that the section was indeed part of “Despite Pakistan’s eco- pleasure. “I am extremely disap- again, it becomes a law whether Sumptuary allowance: Up from Rs10,000 the final legislation. nomic challenges, confidence pointed by decision of Punjab the governor signs it or not. to Rs20,000 per month. in the new government and the Assembly to raise pays and priv- Many leaders of the ruling Official Transport: Up from Rs15,000 to Speaker Salary: Up from Rs37,000 to prime minister is high. Paki- ileges of MPAs, Ministers and esp Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI), Rs30,000 Rs200,000 per month stanis seem to be willing to give CM. Once prosperity returns to who were earlier supporting the the government time to deliver Pak such a move cld be justified, bill, took a U-Turn after PM on its campaign promises, but now, when we do not have Khan’s tweet and began salary?” adding that middle sham exercise of awarding huge that there might be some MPAs which will require difficult eco- resources to provide basic amen- opposing the salary increase. Ini- -class people like himself might benefits to themselves would not who might need residence. nomic reforms to revitalize the ities to all our people, this is tially, federal Information Min- not join the electoral race if they have happened “ However, there are some country’s struggling economy.” untenable,” the Premier said in ister Chaudhry Fawad defended would not get anything in the Punjab Information Minister who still stick to their ground. A combined 57 percent of his tweet. the Punjab Assembly’s move shape of salary. Samsam Bukhari, who had sup- Punjab Assembly Deputy respondents think that Imran The PM also directed Punjab saying that the existing salaries However, a couple of hours ported the bill on Wednesday, Speaker Dost Mohammad Mazari Khan is doing either a “very Governor Chaudhry Mohammad were so meagre that a person later and soon after the PM’s changed his stance within 24 told the media that it was a won- good job” (17 percent) or a Sarwar to send the bill back to from the middle class would not tweet, Chaudhry changed his hours and expressed reservation derful step to increase the Punjab “good job” (40 percent) so far, the assembly instead of signing contest elections. stance and tweeted: “Seems over the bill, saying “he was MPAs’ salary. Responding to the and a combined 56 percent it. He said at least the chief min- Talking to the media at the Punjab Government and the CM against the raise in salaries”. Then prime minister’s tweet, he said approve of the government. ister should not be provided a Islamabad district courts, he House is in the dark about the he changed his stance again and “There is nothing wrong in A plurality of respondents house for lifetime, as laid down asked, “Do you want that MNAs PM and the federal Govt Aus- told the media outside the Punjab increasing the perks of the (40 percent) said that they were in the bill, and the facility should and MPAs should not draw any terity policies otherwise such Assembly that he had only stated assembly members.” willing to give the government one year (26 percent) or two years (14 percent) to start deliv- ering on their campaign Imran condemns NZ attack, says promises. “The survey suggests that the government’s per- terrorism does not have a religion formance will be judged pri- marily on its ability to address INTERNEWS This has been done deliberately pressing economic concerns,” ISLAMABAD to also demonize legitimate said Johanna Kao. Muslim political struggles,” PM Inflation was singled out as Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Imran added. the most important problem in Khan yesterday condemned the President Arif Alvi also Pakistan (39 percent), followed “terrorist attack” on two tweeted and said, “Shocked and by poverty (18 percent) and mosques in Christchurch, New grieved to learn about the horrific unemployment (15 percent). Zealand, in which at least 49 massacre in Christchurch Mosque. Nearly 77 percent of people were killed and 20 more My prayers for the victims. May respondents between the ages were seriously injured. their souls rest in peace. My con- of 18 and 35 see the lack of jobs “Shocked and strongly dolences to the families. I pray as the biggest challenge facing condemn the Christchurch, New they have strength to bear this loss. young people in Pakistan. Zealand, terrorist attack on Hate, once unleashed is difficult The poll also indicates high mosques. This reaffirms what we to stop. Difficult times.” levels of confidence in the results have always maintained: that Foreign Minister Shah of the July 2018 national elec- terrorism does not have a Mehmood Qureshi strongly con- tions. A clear majority (84 religion. Prayers go to the victims demned the attacks. “My percent) say that the results are and their families,” he tweeted. thoughts and prayers are with either “very accurate” (46 “I blame these increasing the bereaved and their families. percent) or “somewhat accurate” terror attacks on the current We are trying to ascertain (38 percent). A combined 83 Islamophobia post-9/11 where whether any Pakistanis have percent believe that the election Islam and 1.3 billion Muslims been killed in the attack. Ter- was both “completely free and Activists of the Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen (MWM) political organisation protesting against the have collectively been blamed rorism has no religion and a ter- fair” (50 percent) or “mostly free attacks on two mosques in New Zealand, in Karachi yesterday. for any act of terror by a Muslim. rorist no country.” and fair” (33 percent). AJK-born barrister 83% of students unaware of companies’ appointed judge in UK access to smart devices data INTERNEWS LONDON INTERNEWS data can be hacked, and referenced a com- ISLAMABAD plaint received by the Federal Investigation A leading British Pakistani barrister, who rose Agency (FIA) alleging that the bank data of to fame winning a record number of human A recent survey has found that 83 percent more than 1,000 people was hacked. rights and immigration law cases in Britain’s of university students are unaware that data “We want to say that smart devices are higher courts has been appointed as an Immi- on smart devices is accessed by service necessary, but they are not trustworthy. Con- gration judge and Deputy District Judge. providers and software companies, and that sumers need to ensure that their data is not London High Court sources confirmed they are authorised to share this data with hacked and they should use security measures. that Zane Malik has become judge of the First third parties. We have also written a letter to the Pakistan Tier Tribunal. Zane Malik, 32, was born in They were also unaware that data col- Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to look Azad Kashmir and studied in Islamabad for lected through mobile phones, televisions into the issue,” he said. He said Pakistan is one A Levels. He later moved to the UK and and wearable devices can be hacked and of five countries where the number of smart studied at East London University for his law misused. The survey had a sample size of devices is increasing by leaps and bounds, graduation. Malik studied bar at the Lincoln’s 500 students, and was conducted by The and the government should make that there Inn and started practicing as a barrister at 12 Network for Consumer Protection to com- is a policy for consumer rights. Old Square, Lincoln’s Inn. memorate World Consumer Rights Day, According to a statement, by 2025, There are only a few Pakistani-born which is observed on March 15. nearly 72 percent of Internet users will be lawyers working as judges in the courts The Network CEO Nadeem Iqbal said accessing the internet exclusively through across England, but Zane Malik becomes the that 150 million smartphones are used in mobile phones. Around half of these new first judge who was born in Pakistan and then Pakistan, around 70 percent are used by users will come from China, India, Indo- moved to the UK for graduation in law and people between the ages of 21 and 30. nesia, Nigeria and Pakistan. Last year, the to join his father’s practice. “We asked the students if they were aware Ministry of Interior informed the Senate that To his credit, Zane Malik has won over that the data available on their devices can be 1,244 complaints were received in the first 250 high profile leading cases in the courts. accessed by service providers and that while 10 months of 2018 regarding unauthorised He continues to take up cases against the downloading every software, consumers sign transactions made through ATMs and government, but also on its behalf in many a no objection letter under which the device can internet banking fund transfers. cases. be accessed and data can be handed over to The Network’s letter to the PTA recom- Malik also has an established private third parties,” Iqbal said. He said 83 percent of mends ensuring that consumers have access practice where he offers his legal services. students were unaware that their data could to affordable, high quality, high speed He regularly writes for legal journals, hosts be accessed and that they sign data access internet connections, and that consumer’s Pakistan National Day rehearsal lectures, conferences and contributes to a agreements with service providers. connected products should be sold with PAC JF-17 ‘Thunder’ aircraft flying during the rehearsal of the wide range of legal platforms. “It is a fact that smart devices, including basic security as standard and updates Pakistan National Day army parade, in Islamabad yesterday. Pakistan In his capacity as a barrister, Malik reg- toys, monitor a number of activities such as should be provided for a reasonable period ularly appears before the highest courts in pulse rate, diabetes, heart rate, and data is not after the sale so that hackers cannot access will celebrate its National Day on March 23 to commemorate the England and leads other barristers and legal only collected but also shared with third consumer data or alter the functionality of passing of the Lahore Resolution. teams in complex cases. parties,” he said. Iqbal also said that collected the product. SATURDAY 16 MARCH 2019 ASIA 07 49 dead in terror attack on NZ mosques

AP people across the nation of 5 CHRISTCHURCH, NEW ZEALAND million people. Police later said one of the arrests didn’t relate At least 49 people were killed to the shootings. in mass shootings at two While there was no reason mosques full of worshippers to believe there were any more attending Friday prayers on suspects, Ardern said the what the prime minister called national security threat level “one of New Zealand’s darkest was being raised from low to days.” high, the second-highest level. One man was arrested and National carrier Air New charged with murder in what Zealand cancelled at least 17 appeared to be a carefully flights in and out of planned racist attack. Police Christchurch, saying it couldn’t also defused explosive devices properly screen customers and in a car. Two other armed sus- Prime Minister their baggage following the pects were being held in Jacinda Ardern shootings. custody. Police said they were said, “The events Police said the investigation trying to determine how they had extended 360km to the might be involved. in Christchurch south, where homes in Dunedin Prime Minister Jacinda represented an were evacuated around a Ardern said the events in extraordinary and “location of interest.” A police Christchurch represented “an statement gave no further detail unprecedented act Police officers at the Masjid Al Noor mosque after a shooting incident in Christchurch yesterday. extraordinary and unprece- of how it might be linked to the dented act of violence,” and that of violence, and that attacks. many of the victims could be many of the victims Authorities have not spec- migrants or refugees. could be migrants or ified who they detained, but “It is clear that this can now refugees. It is clear said none had been on any World reacts with disgust only be described as a terrorist watch list. A man who claimed that this can now only REUTERS attack,” Ardern said. In addition responsibility for the shootings JAKARTA — identified as an Australian Zealand, said in a statement: “I to the dead, health officials said be described as a left a 74-page anti-immigrant extremist — apparently lives- have been deeply saddened by 48 people were being treated at terrorist attack.” manifesto in which he explained Political and religious leaders treaming the assault and pub- the appalling events in Christchurch Hospital for who he was and his reasoning around the world expressed lishing a manifesto online. Christchurch. Prince Philip and gunshot wounds. Injuries for the attack. He said he was a disgust and sorrow at the “With this attack, hostility I send our condolences to the ranged from minor to critical. a woman into custody after the 28-year-old white Australian deadly shooting at two mosques towards Islam, that the world families and friends of those Police took three men and shootings, which shocked and a racist. in New Zealand yesterday. has been idly watching and who have lost their lives.” As governments in Asia and even encouraging for some The US President Donald the Middle East scrambled to time, has gone beyond indi- Trump condemned the “hor- find out how many of their cit- vidual harassment to reach the rible massacre” , in what the izens had been caught up in the level of mass killing,” Erdogan White House described as a Christchurch bloodshed, there said at the funeral of a former “vicious act of hate.” The was anger that the attackers Turkish minister. German Chancellor Angela targeted worshippers at Friday “I blame these increasing Merkel said she was deeply prayers. Turkey’s President terror attacks on the current saddened. The European Com- Recep Tayyip Erdogan yes- Islamophobia post-9/11 (where) mission said: “This senseless act terday condemned the deadly 1.3 billion Muslims have collec- of brutality on innocent people attack, saying it illustrated the tively been blamed for any act in their place of worship could growing hostility towards Islam of terror,” not be more opposite to the “idly” watched by the world. Pakistani Prime Minister values and the culture of peace The attacks on the Imran Khan posted on social and unity that the European Christchurch mosques left at media. Britain’s Queen Eliz- Union shares with New A still image taken from video circulated on social media, shows the gunman driving in Christchurch. least 49 dead, with one gunman abeth, the head of state of New Zealand.” RIGHT: The gunman entering the mosque. Gunman livestreamed shooting, published manifesto

AFP The New Zealand gov- clean-shaven, Caucasian man with the same name and profile at a person standing near the which did not appear to be the CHRISTCHURCH ernment said it could be illegal with short hair driving to the image as the Facebook page that doorway before dropping the full clip, he can be seen changing to share the video, which Masjid al Noor mosque in streamed the attack. In the rifle and shooting repeatedly cartridges three times in just An Australian gunman whose showed the gunman repeatedly central Christchurch. He enters video, the shooter parks his car with the second weapon as he under two minutes. assaults on two New Zealand shooting at worshippers from the building and fires repeatedly next to the mosque and gets out moves inside. The gunman fires The framing of the video, mosques yesterday left at least close range. at worshippers as he moves of the vehicle with a rifle. He dozens of bullets at people which shows only the gunman’s 49 people dead, published a The Facebook Live video, from room to room. The “man- slowly goes to the boot of his car trying to run away or lying down hands holding the gun as he racist manifesto on Twitter taken with a camera that ifesto” detailing motivations for and retrieves another firearm. in huddled groups in corners of shoots and reloads, is eerily before livestreaming his appeared to be mounted on the the attack was posted on Friday He then walks into the com- the rooms. similar to the style of a first- rampage. gunman’s body, shows a morning onto a Twitter account pound of the mosque and fires In the excerpt of the video, person shooter video game.

Duterte names North Korea may suspend N-talks with US 46 officials AFP rocket launch site, where some Choe Son Hui as saying. Kim denuclearisation talks into com- “constructive effort”. “As a result, SEOUL rebuilding activity has been would soon make an official plete disarray, after they were the summit ended with no sig- under drug observed in recent weeks, trig- statement on the actions his left stuttering when the summit nificant result,” she added. North Korea is considering gering international alarm that country would take, Choe told ended without agreement two It is a change of tone from suspending denuclearisation Pyongyang might be preparing reporters and foreign diplomats weeks ago. Pyongyang, after both sides investigation talks with Washington after the a long-range missile or space in Pyongyang. Choe — who was present in expressed their willingness to Hanoi summit between leader launch. Trump told a post-summit Vietnam — blamed the US for the carry on the discussion process AP Kim Jong Un and US President “We have no intention to press conference in Hanoi that failure, saying Secretary of State in Hanoi. Seoul’s presidential MANILA Donald Trump ended without yield to the US demands in any the North Korean leader had Michael Pompeo and National office sought to play down the agreement, one of its top form, nor are we willing to promised he would maintain his Security Adviser John Bolton vice-minister’s comments, Philippine President Rodrigo diplomats said yesterday. engage in negotiations of this moratorium on missile and “created the atmosphere of hos- saying it was “premature to Duterte publicly named 46 The warning came amid con- kind,” the Russian news agency nuclear tests. tility and mistrust” and assess the current situation only government officials, including cerns over the North’s satellite TASS cited vice foreign minister Any launch would send the “obstructed” Kim and Trump’s with Choe’s remarks”. three congressmen, he said are involved in illegal drugs, and added that criminal investiga- Indonesian leader’s ally tions against them are Australia to launch Indian Ocean underway. Although critics have held in graft case as polls loom warned him against making military exercises from Colombo such public announcements AFP “The KPK team in East Java without solid evidence, Duterte AFP that the two countries will company also runs Sri Lanka’s JAKARTA made arrests this morning,” said in a peace and order COLOMBO improve cooperation and famil- biggest container terminal in agency spokesman Febri meeting shown on nationwide iarity with each other’s defence Colombo. Indonesia’s anti-corruption Diansyah said. TV that he trusted the gov- Australia will launch a seven- forces. Neighbouring India as well agency arrested a key political United Development, an ernment agencies that provided nation Indian Ocean military Australian forces will move as Western nations have backer of President Joko Widodo Islamic party, is among a string the information. exercise next week, starting in to neighbouring India on March expressed concern about China’s yesterday, just a month before of parties backing Widodo’s “My decision to unmask Sri Lanka where China has 26 and thereafter travel to foothold on vital locations in Sri he bids for re-election in the April 17 re-election bid in the these drug personalities was invested in strategic ports and Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Lanka which is strategically world’s third-biggest world’s biggest Muslim majority anchored on my trust in the loaned huge amounts to build Indonesia and Singapore before placed along the most important democracy. country. government agencies who had other infrastructure, Canberra’s returning to Darwin after two East-West sea route. United Development Party The president’s campaign vetted and validated the narco envoy said yesterday. and a half months. An ambitious plan, seeking chief Muhammad Romahur- team spokesman expressed sur- list,” Duterte said. He said the Some 1,000 Australian The joint exercise comes as to link Asia, Europe and Africa muziy was taken into custody prise that one of his closest con- Department of Interior and security personnel in four naval concerns grow over Beijing’s with a network of ports, by the Corruption Eradication fidantes was arrested, but Local Government has filed ships and a military aircraft will influence on Sri Lanka’s highways and railways, has seen Commission (KPK) along with insisted the charges were unre- administrative complaints participate in the biggest joint economy and Chinese control China disperse tens of billions of several others, including an lated to next month’s polls. against the politicians. exercise yet with their Sri over two key ports. Unable to dollars in loans to developing official from the religious affairs “Of course we were shocked The government’s Anti- Lankan counterparts, Canberra’s service a $1.4bn Chinese loan to nations, sparking fears of a “debt ministry. to hear this and we’re con- Money Laundering Council and top envoy in Colombo, Jon Philp, build a deep-sea port in the trap”. The anti-corruption agency cerned,” Fikri Satari told broad- a presidential anti-corruption said. “Sri Lanka and Australia are island’s south, Colombo leased The largest single lender to offered few details, but said the caster Kompas TV. commission are both investi- increasingly like-minded on the facility to a Beijing company Sri Lanka, China has secured case involved jobs at the reli- “But this is not related to the gating the officials to build maritime security and Indian for $1.12bn in 2017. contracts to build roads, railways gious affairs ministry and pay- presidential election. It’s a per- criminal cases against them, Ocean issues,” Philp said adding A state-owned Chinese and ports. ments made to public officials. sonal case,” he said. Duterte said. 08 VIEWS SATURDAY 16 MARCH 2019 New Zealand mosque attacks and ESTABLISHED IN 1996 the scourge of white supremacy

CHAIRMAN SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI [email protected] MOHAMAD ELMASRY ACTING MANAGING EDITOR AL JAZEERA MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED [email protected] esterday’s New Zealand mosque shootings, which DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR killed at least 49 people and MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI Ywere allegedly carried out by [email protected] white supremacists, are only the latest on a long list of recent acts of white supremacist terrorism. Despite the growing and constant threat, Western governments have failed to adequately address the danger of white supremacy. EDITORIAL An abbreviated list of recent acts of white supremacist terrorism includes An armed police officer stands guard in a perimeter outside Linwood mosque after Robert Gregory Bowers’ killing of 12 Jewish worshippers at a Synagogue in yesterday’s attacks, in Christchurch, New Zealand, yesterday. Another generous contribution Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in 2018; Alexandre Bissonnette’s massacre of time discussing “Islamic terrorism”, violent, at least not at the level of the atar again through a new contribution of $100 six Muslims in the Quebec City mosque far-right, white supremacist terrorism individual. Some effects of white million to alleviate the sufferings of war-stricken in 2017; Dylann Roof’s murdering of is far more common. A recent study supremacy are more insidious, but QSyrian people has demonstrated its mature, respon- nine black Christian parishioners in a showed that two-thirds of terrorist also more widespread and common. sible and generous role which the country is playing at Charleston, South Carolina church in attacks in the US are carried out by Scientific studies on implicit biases the global level. 2015; and Anders Behring Breivik’s far-right individuals and groups. show that white people view black As Qatar is engaged in active and constructive slaughter of 77 people in Norway in Research by the Southern Poverty Law people as intellectually inferior and diplomacy to bring eight-year old Syrian conflict to an 2011. Center, meanwhile, shows that most more threatening, among other things. end, its wise and generous leadership is extending full According to the Southern Poverty far-right violence is unambiguously Implicit biases help explain why, support to mitigate the constant pain and suffering of mil- Law Center, numerous other white linked to white supremacy. for example, black Americans have lions of war-affected Syrians either they are living inside supremacist plots, including some that In spite of the obvious and con- more difficulty in obtaining loans and Syria or taking shelter in refugee camps in neighbouring planned to kill as many as 30,000 tinued threat of white supremacist ter- getting jobs, even after all non-race countries. people, have been foiled by law rorism, Western societies still arguably variables are controlled for. Perhaps In a statement in Brussels conference on ‘Supporting enforcement in the United States. Just do not take the danger as seriously as most relevant to today’s anti-Muslim the Future of Syria and the Region’ the other day, Deputy last month, the American FBI arrested they should. A recent New York Times massacres in New Zealand is research Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Christopher Paul Hasson, a white report showed that for decades US’s showing that large proportions of Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani affirmed that Qatar supremacist and lieutenant in the US “domestic counterterrorism strategy white people in western societies tend fulfilled all its commitments during the political consul- coastguard, has ignored the rising danger of far- to view Muslims and other brown tations and donor conferences, and supported the needs for allegedly right extremism”, which, the report immigrants as subhuman. of the Syrian people since the outbreak of the crisis and plotting ter- also noted, is tied explicitly to white Another problem directly relevant over eight years, by granting about $2bn, in coordination rorist attacks supremacy. to today’s New Zealand massacres is with its partners from donor countries and specialised against black Political movements may help media coverage. Western news media international agencies. and liberal explain why many Western societies coverage of Muslims tends to be neg- H E the Deputy Prime Min- A recent New politicians do not take the threat of white ative and highly stereotypical. Violent ister and Minister of Foreign York Times and media supremacy as seriously as they should crimes carried out by Muslims are Affairs said that Qatar is a report showed personalities. - many Western political leaders are highlighted in reportage, while violent reliable partner and will spare that for decades All of this themselves beholden to white crimes perpetrated against Muslims no effort to provide all support is to say supremacy. are often de-emphasised or ignored. As Qatar is and assistance to Syrian US’s “domestic nothing of White nationalism has taken firm One peer-reviewed quantitative engaged in active people, in coordination with counterterrorism less recent root in both European and American analysis showed that acts of terrorism and constructive its international partners and strategy has white political mainstreams. In Europe, committed by Muslims receive 357 diplomacy to bring in accordance with interna- ignored the rising supremacist white nationalists have gained percent more news attention than acts tional law. history, political traction and influenced elec- of terrorism committed by non- eight-year-old danger of far- Syrian conflict to The Deputy Prime Minister including tions and referendums, including the Muslims. Additionally, the word “ter- stressed that alleviating the right extremism”, anti-black United Kingdom’s 2016 Brexit vote, rorism” is often ignored in the context an end, its wise and suffering of the Syrians which, the report violence per- while in the US, President Donald of non-Muslim violence and used generous leadership requires the international petrated by Trump and numerous Republican pol- exclusively in news reports describing is extending full community to fulfil its human- also noted, is tied US’s Ku Klux iticians have been linked to white Muslim crimes. support to mitigate itarian obligations and provide explicitly to white Klan (KKK), supremacy. Political elites and media cov- the constant pain and the necessary assistance and supremacy. thousands of White supremacist and former erage, then, are two factors helping to suffering of millions take effective measures to 19th and 20th KKK Grand Wizard David Duke explain the largely negative percep- ensure the implementation of century explained why white supremacists tions of Muslims, black people, immi- of war-affected Security Council resolution lynchings of black Americans by white voted for Trump in US’s 2016 presi- grants, and other minorities in con- Syrians either they 2165 on facilitating and pro- supremacist mobs, millions of black dential election, and Trump made temporary Western societies. Today’s are living inside Syria viding humanitarian access to people murdered during the African headlines in 2016 when he refused to shooters in New Zealand weren’t born or taking shelter all affected areas in Syria and slave trade, or millions of brown disavow Duke’s support. In 2017, to hate Muslims or any other minority in refugee camps to Syrian refugees in host people killed during the peak periods Trump famously equivocated on the group. They were taught, just as all in neighbouring countries. of Western colonialism. Scholars and KKK and called white supremacists other white supremacist terrorists are In a related development, analysts have cogently and repeatedly protesting in Charlottesville, Virginia taught, via bigoted discourses which countries. Qatar Fund For Development argued that both the African slave “very fine people”. Earlier this decade, have attained hegemonic status in (QFFD) signed last month a trade and Western colonialism were Trump spearheaded campaigns chal- western societies. grant agreement with Qatar Charity (QC) to address the carried out largely in the service of lenging the intelligence, grades, and The writer is an Associate Pro- humanitarian situation of Syrians within their country white supremacy. citizenship of the US’s first black Pres- fessor of Media and Cultural Studies and in Lebanon in 2019. The pact came as part of the Although US media and political ident, Barack Obama. at the Doha Institute for Graduate $50mn grant allocated to support the Syrian people. The elites spend considerable White supremacy isn’t always Studies. agreement, worth around QR18m included three projects, benefiting nearly 108,500 people and 5,000 families. It is pertinent to mention that under the directives of Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Qatar had Go small on North Korea cancelled State’s National Day celebrations on December18, 2016 in solidarity with the people of Aleppo officials publicly warned before the incrementally,” he declared. “The who were subjected to the most extreme forms of THE WASHINGTON POST summit, North Korea is not prepared missing variable is North Korea itself repression, displacement and genocide at the time. A huge now to undertake full disarmament, has to also fully commit to the elimi- donations campaign had been organized in Qatar, col- ollowing his failed summit in and may never be. nation of its weapons of mass lecting about $330m which led to Qatar’s receiving of a Hanoi with Kim Jong Un, Pres- The vast disconnect between the destruction and affiliated programs,” letter of thanks from the United Nations. ident Donald Trump two proposals explains why the summit he said. The administration is right to Fannounced that the North ended so abruptly, and it points to the seek an unambiguous North Korean Korean ruler had tried to sell him on a illusions that were cherished by the acceptance of denuclearization as a blatantly one-sided deal. But since leaders. Both appeared to believe the goal; the statement Trump agreed to at then, it has emerged that the president other was desperate for a deal and his summit with Kim last June was less arrived in Hanoi with his own non- could be induced to accept terms their than clear. But it’s unlikely to make QUOTE OF THE DAY starter proposal. aides might otherwise dismiss. The progress toward that end, or even pre- In the initial account, North Korea result is a dangerous impasse, as North serve the fragile detente under which We stand here and was demanding that five UN resolu- Korea takes steps to refurbish a missile North Korea has suspended warhead condemn absolutely tions containing the most potent sanc- testing and launch site that Kim and missile testing, unless it is willing to the attack that tions be lifted in exchange for the promised Trump would be dismantled. move in stages. closing of one nuclear facility - which Some experts believe the regime may The administration is under- occurred today by an would have left the regime’s arsenal of be preparing to stage a satellite launch standably anxious to avoid repeating extremist, right-wing, nuclear warheads and intercontinental - a step that could rekindle the crisis previous deals in which North Korea violent terrorist. We missiles untouched, along with other that preceded the first Trump-Kim has obtained sanctions relief for partial are not just allies; we production sites. Trump seemingly had summit last June. steps and then reneged. Yet there could no choice but to walk away. The diplomatic failure should have be ways to make progress while are not just partners; But we have since learned that prompted the Trump administration to avoiding past pitfalls. Before Hanoi, we are family. Trump, for his part, tried to persuade reconsider its strategy. Instead, it seems there were suggestions the United Kim to commit to the complete dis- to be doubling down. The State Depart- States could agree to noneconomic Scott Morrison mantlement of his arsenal and pro- ment’s North Korea envoy, Stephen steps, such as a declaration ending the Australian Prime Minister duction facilities for all weapons of Biegun, on Monday rejected the idea of state of war between the two countries, mass destruction, in exchange for the seeking a partial or staged deal. “We in exchange for the shutdown of the end of sanctions. As top US intelligence are not going to do denuclearisation Yongbyon nuclear complex. SATURDAY 16 MARCH 2019 OPINION 09 Italy’s drive to join China’s Belt and Road hits potholes

he ancient Silk Road was a “I am afraid that up until now we Britain next on the list exporting 23.4 United States, releasing a draft of network of trading routes that have handled this in too amateurish a billion euros, France third with 20.8 the MOU to show it offers up no stretched from China to Italy, fashion, without any real coordi- billion euros and Italy fourth on 13.17 firm commitments and makes no transporting goods, skills and nation,” Lucio Caracciolo, director of billion euros. reference to the sort of technology T “There is huge potential there that ideas half way around the world. the influential Limes geopolitical transfers feared by Washington. Jump forward two millennia and review, told Reuters. other countries are already taking Likewise eager to show that its Italy now wants to play a pivotal role “My fear is that in the end we will advantage of,” said Geraci. pro-China policy is bearing fruit, in the new Silk Road being created by lose on both counts, getting nothing But just as Italy adopts its new the government has leaked reports Chinese President Xi Jinping. But substantial from China while the position, the rest of Europe seems to that 50 agreements might be signed CRISPIAN BALMER joining the latest incarnation is United States retaliates against us for be having second thoughts. during Xi’s March 21-23 visit, REUTERS proving controversial and risky for having got too close to Beijing.” Earlier this week, the European including deals with oil company Rome’s modern-day masters. Deputy Prime Minister Luigi Di Maio, Commission branded Beijing a “sys- Eni, gas infrastructure firm Snam Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte who leads the populist 5-Star temic rival” and called on European and shipbuilder Fincantieri. plans to sign a preliminary accord Movement, has spearheaded the pro- Union leaders to back its ideas to Italy also hopes to unveil when Xi visits Rome next week, Beijing policy, setting up a China Task curb Chinese state-owned projects to develop trade through hooking Italy up to the Belt and Road Force within the industry ministry enterprises. its ports of Genoa, Trieste and Initiative (BRI) - a colossal, multi- that has the stated aimed of making The European Union has grown Palermo. Although China’s COSCO billion-dollar project designed to Italy a “privileged partner” in BRI. increasingly frustrated by what it Shipping has bought control of the improve Beijing’s trade reach. He has visited China twice in eight sees as the slowness of China to open largest port in Greece, Italy says it Italy’s drive to be the first Group of months and effectively sidelined the its economy and by a surge of offers better entry points into Seven industrialised nation to join the foreign ministry on one of the most Chinese takeovers in critical EU Europe. ambitious venture has angered Wash- sensitive diplomatic issues of the day. sectors, accusing it of distorting local “There is still much work to be ington and alarmed Brussels, raising Di Maio’s task force is led by markets. done on the China deals, including fears of a sellout of sensitive technol- junior industry minister Michele Rome says such concerns should what money is involved,” said a ogies and the handover of critical Geraci, who lived in China for 10 years not stop it forging closer ties and business source involved in the Italy’s drive to be the infrastructure. With ports that offer before entering government in 2018. points to the fact that 13 EU countries negotiations, who declined to be easy gateways into Europe’s richest Neither he, Di Maio nor Conte had any have already signed memoranda of named. first Group of Seven markets, Italy is a promising and experience of international diplomacy understanding (MOUs) with China, A welter of lucrative contracts industrialised nation prestigious prize for China. before last year. including Hungary, Poland, Greece would represent a badly needed to join the ambitious In return for its endorsement, Geraci speaks Chinese and fer- and Portugal. victory for Di Maio, who is not only venture has angered Italy’s government hopes for a boost vently backs closer ties with Beijing, However, the biggest EU exporters battling to soothe US tempers, but in exports and investment that will lift saying Italy has fallen behind its to China have not signed MOUs and is also struggling to sell the deal to Washington and its anaemic economy out of its third partners. those that have do not have much to his coalition partner, the far-right alarmed Brussels, recession in a decade. “When I returned to Italy I found a show for it, said Lucrezia Poggetti, a League. raising fears of a But diplomatic analysts and certain inertia when it came to research associate with the Mercator Even though Geraci is a political foes say Rome has not China,” Geraci, a former economics Institute for China Studies in Berlin. member of the League, the group sellout of sensitive weighed the geopolitical risks, failed professor, told Reuters last month. “They have been frustrated that appeared blindsided when news of technologies and the to consult with its Western partners “We need to play catch-up.” vaguely phrased Chinese promises for an imminent deal emerged last handover of critical and underestimated growing concern According to Eurostat, Germany economic opportunities have largely week, with party chief Matteo infrastructure. about China’s burgeoning global exported 93.8 billion euros ($106 failed to materialise,” Poggetti told Salvini warning against the “colo- aspirations. billion) of goods to China in 2018, with Reuters. nialisation” of Italy by China. “Signing up to the BRI without “We are reviewing it,” Salvini, taking into account geopolitical con- who serves as joint deputy prime siderations and without making minister with Di Maio, said on concrete demands, hoping that one Thursday. “Before allowing day you will get something in return someone to invest in the ports of economically, is very naive,” she Trieste or Genoa, I would think said. about it not once but a hundred The Belt and Road project lies at times.” the heart of China’s foreign policy strategy and was incorporated into the ruling Communist Party consti- tution in 2017, reflecting Xi’s desire for his country to take a global leadership role. The United States, locked in a trade war with Beijing, worries that D-RING ROAD Xi’s initiative is designed to bolster POST BOX: 3488 China’s political and military DOHA - QATAR influence, and could be used to spread [email protected] technologies capable of spying on Western interests. “No need for Italian government EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE to lend legitimacy to China’s infra- TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 structure vanity project,” a FAX: +974 4455 7758 spokesman for the White House’s national security advisers said on Sat- MANAGING EDITOR urday in a rare public rebuke for one TEL: 4462 7505 of Washington’s staunchest allies. Refusing to back down, Italy has DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR File picture of Chinese President Xi Jinping attending a news conference at the end of the Belt and Road Forum in Beijing. nonetheless tried to reassure the TEL: 4455 7769

LOCAL NEWS SECTION TEL: 4455 7743 ohn Lanchester’s new novel “The has been nominated for a Nobel Peace humans have known this will make Wall” imagines Britain after “The Prize. the earth far less hospitable. Thanks BUSINESS NEWS SECTION Change.” Following a dramatic Can you really blame the kids? The to Asian demand, we consume 80 TEL: 4462 7535 shift in temperature and sea planet has warmed by “only” about 1 percent more coal today than in J 2000. Destroying the environmental levels, the UK has barricaded off what degree Celsius (1.8 Fahrenheit) since SPORT NEWS SECTION remains of the coastline; in Lanches- pre-industrial times and yet the conditions that gave rise to the human TEL: 4455 7745 ter’s dystopia, there aren’t any destructive effects of climate change species “has been the work of a single CHRIS BRYANT beaches left. Young citizens bore no have become frighteningly apparent. generation,” Wallace-Wells writes. ONLINE SECTION BLOOMBERG responsibility for any of this, but The heatwaves, floods, deadly wild- We adults are proud of the TEL: 4462 7501 fires and violent hurricanes we’ve progress we’ve made in other areas - [email protected] experienced lately are mild compared life expectancy, equal rights, edu- to what our children will contend with. cation and poverty, to name a few. But PUBLIC RELATIONS The world is on track to heat up by when later historians write about this TEL: 4455 7613 period, that isn’t what they’ll more than 3 degrees by 2100 and the [email protected] Your kids are absolutely warming won’t miraculously stop then. remember. Despite the rapid adoption “The climate system that raised us, of wind and solar power, big ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT and raised everything we now know improvements in energy efficiency TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 right to go on strike as human culture and civilization, is and electric vehicles, our carbon FAX: 4455 7870 now, like a parent, dead,” writes emissions are still rising. We’re [email protected] David Wallace-Wells in “The Unin- locking in more destruction for our habitable Earth.” Unfortunately, this kids to cope with. CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT isn’t another Lanchester-like work of Linking the Fridays For Future TEL: 4455 7857 they’re the ones who must guard the speculative fiction. It’s non-fiction. movement and young people’s enthu- [email protected] wall and violently repel increasingly Wallace-Wells’ book documents siasm for policies like the Green New desperate migrants, known as “The the horrors and chaos that those Deal is the belief that the time for SUBSCRIPTION & Others.” If they fail, the young are cutting class on Friday want to avoid: incrementalism is over. Yet govern- DISTRIBUTION themselves cast out to sea as pun- Tens of millions of climate refugees, ments and corporate bosses continue TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 ishment. Not surprisingly, they’re trillions of dollars of economic to drag their heels. Even those, like Young citizens bore FAX: 44557819 pretty unhappy about their lot. damage, deadly heat, fresh-water Germany’s Angela Merkel, who [email protected] no responsibility “None of us can talk to our scarcity and “much more fire, much support the kids’ right to protest are for any of this, but parents,” says Kavanagh, the novel’s more often, burning much more guilty. Supposedly a climate leader, they’re the ones who protagonist. “It’s guilt: mass guilt, gen- land.” A single California wildfire can Germany is recklessly phasing out erational guilt. The olds feel they irre- undo all the emissions gains made nuclear power but plans to continue All thoughts and views must guard the wall trievably destroy the world, then that year via the state’s environmental burning coal for another two decades. and violently repel allowed us to be born into it. You policies, just one of several terrifying Car manufacturers like Fiat expressed in these columns increasingly desperate know what? It’s true. That’s exactly climate feedback loops he describes. Chrysler Automobiles NV tout their are those of the writers, what they did. They know it, we know Wallace-Wells’ writing is of electric plans while gorging on US not of the newspaper. migrants, known as it. Everybody knows it.” course more vivid than the conserv- truck and SUV sales. In mining, “The Others.” If they It’s a sentiment shared no doubt ative, consensus-driven reports pro- Glencore Plc is committed to capping fail, the young are by the schoolchildren protesting duced by the UN’s Intergovernmental coal production at current levels to All correspondence themselves cast out to around the world on Friday to Panel on Climate Change. A journalist, appease climate-concerned investors, regarding Views and demand far more decisive action on not a scientist, he makes no attempt to yet it expects fat profits from coal this sea as punishment. Not Opinion pages should be climate change. Inspired by 16-year hide his alarm nor pull his punches year, and probably will for years to sent to editor-in-chief surprisingly, they’re old Greta Thunberg’s weekly vigil about who to blame. Why should he? come. Airlines talk about carbon office or mailed to the pretty unhappy about outside Sweden’s parliament, the More than half of fossil fuel- offsets but they’re banking on so much [email protected] their lot. movement has expanded to dozens of related emissions have occurred in growth that their emissions might rise countries, including the US Thunberg the past 30 years, during which sevenfold by 2050. 10 EUROPE SATURDAY 16 MARCH 2019 Students join climate protest worldwide

AFP “We are living through STOCKHOLM an existential crisis that has been ignored Tens of thousands of young for decades and if people skipped school across the globe yesterday and marched we do not act now it through the streets on a global may be too late,” said day of student protests aiming to Greta Thunberg. push world leaders into action on climate change. Classrooms in capitals from most polluted cities, 200 stu- Bangkok to Berlin, Lagos to dents took part in a colourful London were expected to be protest, waving ribbons, juggling empty, as the ambitious organ- and performing stunts with isers of the student strike hoped hoops. to stage 1,000 demos in more “We have to make a choice than 100 countries. whether we want to sit and be Students flooded into the indifferent or do something for streets across Europe and Asia our planet,” said 16-year-old carrying placards that read student Srijani Datta, who also “There is no planet B”, “You’re issued a warning to the world’s destroying our future” and “If politicians. “Most of us are 16-17 you don’t act like adults, we will.” and we are going to turn 18 soon. Despite 30 years of warnings We are going to be eligible for about dire impacts, carbon voting. As voters we will show dioxide emissions hit record we care about climate change. If levels in 2017 and again last year. you can’t give us that (fresh air Loading the atmosphere with and water), you will not get our greenhouse gases at current votes.” rates, scientists agree, will even- In Sydney, 18-year-old tually lead to an uninhabitable Charles Rickwood, warned that CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Demonstrators taking part in “Global planet. if nothing is done, Australia’s Strike For Future” at Stortorget, in Lund, southern Sweden, yesterday. In Stockholm, Swedish teen famous Great Barrier Reef could activist Greta Thunberg who be destroyed. Youth demanding action on climate change gather at Town Hall inspired the protests, was “Especially if current trends in Sydney. View of a protest against climate change, in Athens. thronged by journalists and in the environment continue, several dozen protesters, one we’ll see the one, two degrees the streets across the country. old leader said in a statement. ployment crisis is at its worst.” easy to say you’re going to an carrying a banner declaring increase in our ocean then it will “Climate now, school later,” “Please keep bringing as In the Indian Ocean island event on a Facebook page or like “Make the Climate Greta Again”. simply become unsustainable said one placard. “”I believe many people as you can with you nation of Mauritius, students cir- something but not really do any- “I don’t think I was really and we could lose the entire more in unicorns than in the will because we simply won’t achieve culated a petition to be submitted thing,” she said. behind this movement, I think it Great Barrier Reef,” he said. of politicians to save the planet,” our goals alone.” to the government demanding The Paris treaty calls for was already there and just However, the demos said another. In famously hard-working concrete measures to tackle capping global warming at “well needed a spark to light up,” she attracted mixed reactions from However, the budding South Korea, demonstrations climate change. “The planet is below” two degrees Celsius (3.6 said. politicians. activists received encour- only began once lessons finished heating up, the youth are rising degrees Fahrenheit) but the “We are living through an In Australia, Education Min- agement from New Zealand for the day. up,” they chanted. planet is currently on track to existential crisis that has been ister Dan Tehan said the strike Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, “It’s hard for students to skip Wellington university heat up by double that figure. ignored for decades and if we do was “not something that we who said it was important for the school in order to participate in student Josie Mason, 20, said she The UN’s climate science not act now it may be too late,” should encourage.” young generation to send a this climate strike,” said was “excited by the fact that panel warned in October that said Thunberg, who has been And Germany’s Economy message. organiser Jeong Juwon, 25. “In youth are being heard and are only a wholesale transformation nominated for the Nobel Peace Minister Peter Altmaier said stu- “We hear you and we’re South Korea, exam results are making a stand right now.” of the global economy and con- Prize for her activism. dents should be in school — even getting on with setting a path for very important and it’s a big “They call our generation the sumer habits could forestall a In Delhi, one of the world’s as crowds of youngsters took to carbon neutrality,” the 38-year- burden, and also the unem- ‘slacktivists’ because it’s really catastrophe.

George Michael’s artworks fetch EU leaders seek clarity from UK before Brexit delay $12.2m at auction AFP the twice massively rejected Brexit current deal is rejected again “a possibility of a longer delay, who appears to have lost control LONDON deal struck by Prime Minister clear and new alternative plan” Coveney said: “I think many EU over her bickering cabinet. AFP Theresa May with EU leaders. must be presented or else Britain leaders will be very uncom- On Thursday, MPs voted to LONDON EU leaders yesterday called for The government said it would have to leave the EU with fortable with a long extension.” ask EU leaders to simply push clarity from Britain before would ask for a “technical” delay no agreement. He said Ireland would only Brexit back in a bid to head off a A collection of contemporary considering any delay to Brexit until June 30 to pass necessary The British government is consider it if it was to “implement hugely disruptive end to their art owned by late pop idol after a series of chaotic votes by legislation if MPs finally approve hoping that talk of a long delay a clear plan and strategy to partnership. George Michael, including MPs just two weeks before the the deal next week. to Brexit will persuade hardliners reflect on and perhaps change May struck her agreement works by Damien Hirst and deeply divided country is due to If MPs vote against it for a in May’s own Conservative Party direction in regard to Brexit”. with the EU in November after Tracey Emin, has been sold for leave the bloc. third time, the government has and its ally, the Democratic EU leaders have hinted they nearly two years of tortuous $12.2m, Christie’s auction house Quitting the EU after 46 years warned it will be forced to seek Unionist Party (DUP), to get could support a longer delay only negotiations. But the deal has said. on March 29 remains the legal a much longer delay. behind her deal. if Britain were to drop its red remained deadlocked in the Michael was a keen col- default unless EU leaders unan- “It is very clear that the next Speaking on a visit to Paris, lines, particularly its insistence British parliament. lector of works by Young British imously grant Britain an steps, the next proposal on how Irish Foreign Minister Simon on leaving the EU customs union Lawmakers voted on Art movement and developed extension, with the issue likely to move forward must come Coveney said “everyone would so as to pursue an independent Wednesday not to leave without friendships with many of the to dominate a March 21 to 22 EU from Britain,” German Chan- welcome” MPs approving the trade policy. an agreement but still lacked a artists, visiting their galleries summit in Brussels. cellor Angela Merkel’s deal and Brexit being briefly The UK is barrelling towards clear roadmap on the way and studios. The length of any possible spokesman Steffen Seibert said. pushed back to get the necessary the March 29 Brexit deadline forward three years after Brexit Christie’s billed the sale of delay will depend on the outcome French President Emmanuel legislation through. with no approved EU withdrawal was approved in a divisive ref- more than 200 works as a of another parliamentary vote on Macron’s office said that if the But, asked about the agreement and a prime minister erendum in June 2016. “once-in-a-lifetime oppor- tunity” for fans of the tradition- defying movement from the 1980s and 1990s. Spanish govt to exhume Proceeds of the auction will go towards Michael’s various philanthropic ventures, the Franco’s remains in June auctioneers said. The singer died of heart and AFP by right-wing sympathisers. liver problems in 2016. MADRID The mausoleum is a vast monument the dictator built Spain said it will move the with forced labour during his Two arrested over remains of late dictator Fran- 1939-1975 rule. cisco Franco from an opulent The former conservative suspected links to mausoleum to a state-run Popular Party government pantheon, after months of wran- resisted bids to exhume him but 2015 Paris attacks gling between the government Socialist President Pedro and his family. Sanchez revived the effort after AFP/THE HAGUE The move has long been taking office last year. talked about by sympathisers of His government, which first Dutch police have arrested two the left-leaning government but announced the exhumation in men in Amsterdam with fiercely resisted by Franco’s June, has gained the Vatican’s suspected links to weapons heirs and many on the right. approval for the move. used in deadly attacks in Paris It revives old tensions from Sanchez’s government in 2015 that killed 130 people, Spain’s civil war in the 1930s and rejected a proposal by Franco’s prosecutors said yesterday. Russia’s Soyuz MS-12 spacecraft carrying the members of the ISS expedition 59/60 blasts off to the the subsequent four decades of family to relocate him to “Police arrested two men ISS from the launch pad at the Baikonur cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. Franco’s rule. Madrid’s main cathedral, fearing on Tuesday in Amsterdam in an “The reburial of Franco’s it would become a place of pil- investigation into the origin of remains will take place on the grimage for sympathisers. weapons used by IS terrorists Astronauts on Soyuz spacecraft reach ISS morning of June 10,” Deputy The National Francisco in the attacks in Paris in 2015,” Prime Minister Carmen Calvo Franco Foundation, which a statement said. AFP and his Russian colleague Alexey 400km above the Earth at 01:01 said, adding that the body will defends the memory of the dic- The two men, aged 29 and BAIKONUR Ovchinin, who both survived a GMT, a few minutes ahead of be taken to the Mingorrubio-El tator, has said it will appeal the 31, “are suspected of in some dramatically aborted Soyuz schedule. Pardo state pantheon in a cem- move at the Supreme Court. way being involved in delivery A Russian cosmonaut and two launch last year, were joined on During a live broadcast via etery north of Madrid, where Spain’s announcement of weapons” to carry out US astronauts arrived yesterday the smoothly-executed trip by high-definition cameras aboard Franco’s wife is already buried. comes as the country is gearing France’s worst terror attacks on at the International Space Nasa astronaut Christina Koch. the ISS, the mission commander Franco’s tomb currently lies up for snap elections on April 28. November 13 that year. Station (ISS) aboard a Russian The rocket blasted off Ovchinin reported that the in a huge hillside mausoleum Sanchez is trying to prevent Armed men gunned down at Soyuz spacecraft, five months without incident from Russia’s mooring mechanism was belonging to the Catholic Church the Popular Party from returning the Bataclan concert hall and at after the failed launch of a rocket Baikonur cosmodrome in Kaza- engaged. in the Valley of the Fallen west to power with the support of several restaurants around Paris carrying two of the passengers. khstan and docked at the ISS less A Nasa commentator then of Madrid, where it draws visits newly-emerged far-right party and at Stade de France stadium. Nasa astronaut Nick Hague than six hours later, more than confirmed the “capture.” from tourists and demonstrations Vox. SATURDAY 16 MARCH 2019 EUROPE/ AMERICAS 11 Five kids of French jihadists return home from Syria

AFP “The mothers of all must face local justice. PARIS five children are dead Like many other European countries, however, it had The French government said and their fathers faced a quandary over what to yesterday it had repatriated are either dead or do with the widows and five orphaned children of missing,” a source children of militants who died French jihadists’ from camps said, adding that in Syria or been taken prisoner in northeast Syria, where a there. five-year offensive against the more children could The situation gained IS terror group is drawing to a follow but that no urgency as the battle against IS bloody close. mothers would be enters its final days, with the The children, aged five or allowed return. Syrian Kurdish forces in charge under, were flown home in a of the camps where the women military aircraft and placed and children urging the mili- under medical supervision, the tants’ home countries to take foreign ministry said. from a US-led coalition, “for their families back. “The decision was taken in their cooperation, which made While expressing com- view of the situation of these this outcome possible”. passion for the children France very young children, who are The mothers of all five has been reluctant to be seen particularly vulnerable,” the children are dead and their helping French women who foreign ministry said yesterday, fathers are either dead or travelled to Syria to join IS and adding that the government missing, a diplomatic source sometimes acted as cheer- was in touch with their French said, adding that more children leaders for the group’s Flowers are seen outside of New Zealand house in London to honour the mosques shooting victims relatives. could follow but that no atrocities. in New Zealand, yesterday. The government thanked mothers would be allowed On Wednesday President the Syrian Democratic Forces return. Emmanuel Macron said the (SDF), the Kurdish-led outfit France has been adamant government was taking a which has spearheaded the that citizens who fought “humanitarian” case-by-case London beefs up security at mosques fight against IS, with backing alongside IS in Syria or Iraq approach to the children but that the government’s position ANATOLIA lowing the shootings. because of their faith.” on “adult fighters and militants LONDON A group of police officers “London stands with the who followed IS to the Middle provided security in front of the people of Christchurch in the Russia lashes out at West for East had not changed.” London Metropolitan Police Finsbury Park Mosque in north face of this horrific terror They must be tried in the stepped up security around London until after Muslim wor- attack,” the mayor added refusing to take back IS fighters place they committed their mosques in the British capital shippers left the mosque as well yesterday. crimes.” yesterday following deadly as other mosques, including the The East London Mosque AP who were fighting alongside the Britain too has taken an terror attacks on mosques in East London Mosque and Muslim saw a solidarity gathering fol- MOSCOW IS terror group in Syria and Iraq. uncompromising stance with New Zealand that killed 49 Centre. lowing the Friday prayers. The issue of foreign-born IS female jihadists. people. Pedestrians near Finsbury Khan attended the gathering, A top Russian diplomat has fighters has become acute as It refused to take back a A large police presence and Mosque had been targeted in a along with London Bishop Sarah lashed out at Western countries the once sprawling territory pregnant British teen, Shamima tight security were in place in June 2017 Islamophobic attack Mullally, MP Rushanara Ali, for refusing to take back foreign- controlled by the extremists has Begum, who begged to return and around mosques in London which killed one person and left Tower Hamlets Mayor Rush- born militants who have been shrunk to a small enclave and home, stripping her of her cit- before traditional Friday prayers. nine injured. anara Ali, Muslim Council of fighting in Syria and Iraq. both Syria and Iraq face a post- izenship after interviews in Earlier, at least 49 people The tightened security came Britain Secretary General Harun Foreign Ministry spokes- war future. which she appeared to show were confirmed killed when after London Mayor Sadiq Khan Khan, and Rev. Alan Green, chair woman Maria Zakharova at a Zakharova also said that the little remorse for being an IS gunmen targeted two mosques said that police in London will of the Tower Hamlet Interfaith briefing accused Western detention facilities where propagandist. in Christchurch, according to the be on high alert today. Forum. nations of trying to “get rid” of foreign-born fighters are held Her newborn baby later New Zealand police commis- Khan described the New A vigil will be held in front of their own citizens by refusing should be handed over to the died, triggering widespread sioner, Mike Bush. Zealand attacks as “heart- Finsbury Park metro station to to repatriate their nationals Syrian government. criticism of the British govern- Four people, including a breaking,” adding that: “Innocent commemorate the victims of the ment’s decision. woman, were arrested fol- people have been murdered Christchurch attack.

Nicaragua govt US and EU impose new sanctions on Russia frees 50 prisoners

AFP amid negotiations Straight, or for their activities in transacting with them. “We call upon Russia to The United States addi- WASHINGTON Crimea or eastern Ukraine, a US Four of the individuals are immediately return to Ukraine tionally imposed sanctions on REUTERS Treasury statement said. border guard or coast guard offi- the seized vessels and detained two Ukrainian separatists — MANAGUA The United States, in coordi- “The United States and our cials, singled out for their role in crewmembers, and keep the Aleksey Naydenko and Vladimir nation with the European Union transatlantic partners will not November 2018 naval confron- Kerch Strait and the Sea of Azov Vysotsky — involved in organ- The Nicaraguan government and Canada, slapped new sanc- allow Russia’s continued tation, in which Russian ships fired open to ships transiting to and ising November elections in the released a second group of pris- tions on more than a dozen offi- aggression against Ukraine to go on and seized three Ukrainian from Ukrainian ports,” added breakaway east, which Wash- oners following demands by the cials and businesses in response unchecked,” Treasury Secretary vessels in the narrow Kerch Strait State Department spokesman ington says were a “sham.” opposition for more detainees to Russia’s “continued aggression Steve Mnuchin was quoted as the two countries share. Robert Palladino in a statement. The six defence firms were to be freed before political in Ukraine.” saying. The four were targeted “We also call on Russia to targeted over their operations in dialogue to broker a way out of Six Russian officials, six The US sanctions freeze all jointly with the EU and Canada respect Ukraine’s sovereignty Russian-annexed Crimea, where a national crisis continues. defence firms and two energy property and interests in according to State Department. and territorial integrity within its the USs says several “misappro- The interior ministry said and construction firms were tar- property belonging to the desig- Twenty-four Ukrainian crew internationally recognised priated Ukrainian state assets to 50 people — which the oppo- geted, either over the seizure of nated individuals and entities, members were detained in the borders, including its territorial provide services to the Russian sition considers political pris- Ukrainian vessels in the Kerch and prohibit US persons from naval incident. waters.” military.” oners — had been released, joining 100 others let out on February 27, the day talks between the government and US and Brazil could collaborate its opponents had restarted. Talks broke down when the on nuclear reactors: Minister opposition made continued dia- logue conditional on the release REUTERS/WASHINGTON investment in prospecting and of “all political prisoners.” mining for uranium in the A committee representing The US and Brazil could work country, Minister Bento Albu- relatives of the detainees said together to build small nuclear querque said. “There is already there are still more than 570 reactors, as South America’s a draft of the legislation, but a political prisoners in custody. largest economy prepares to final version must be negotiated The latest to be freed left a open uranium mining and with Congress” penitentiary on the outskirts of related areas to foreign “We have to resolve inter- Managua and headed into the investment, a minister said. nally the issue of uranium explo- city. Brazil is preparing legis- ration that today is a monopoly Dozens of residents came lation that would clear the way of the state and is in the hands out to wave the Nicaraguan flag for both private and foreign of Nuclear Industries of Brazil.” and greet the prisoners. Senate to probe if DOJ officials An aerial view of nearly full Nicasio Reservoir in California, yesterday. discussed removal of Trump California declared totally drought free AP including McCabe and Deputy Graham sent a letter to REUTERS dry spell that reduced irrigation 2011 that 100 percent of the state WASHINGTON Attorney General Rod Rosen- Attorney-General William Barr LOS ANGELES supplies to farmers, forced strict has been classified as being free stein, discussed bringing the requesting documents related to household conservation of drought, defined as a moisture Senate Judiciary Committee Cabinet together to consider those discussions. California was declared totally measures and stoked a spate of deficit severe enough to cause Chairman Lindsey Graham said using the amendment to remove “The Committee is deeply drought free for the first time in deadly, devastating wildfires. social, environmental or eco- his panel will investigate a claim Trump. concerned with these discus- more than seven years, following A relatively small swath of nomic ills. by former FBI Director Andrew The Justice Department has sions and whether they essen- unusually abundant winter rains California’s southern-most Conditions were classified as McCabe that Justice Department not denied those discussions tially indicate that two of the and snowfall statewide, region, including most of San normal across 93 percent of the officials once discussed using the took place but said in February highest ranking law enforcement according to the government’s Diego County, remains labelled state. Constitution’s 25th Amendment that department leaders did not officials in the United States weekly report on US drought “abnormally dry” on the drought The current picture marks a to remove President Donald believe there was any basis for were discussing what amounts conditions. map index, as does a tiny patch major improvement from just Trump from office. invoking the 25th Amendment, to a coup against the President,” The US Drought Monitor’s at the state’s extreme northern one year ago, when nearly 70 McCabe has said that after which enables Cabinet members Graham said. “Accordingly, the latest survey reflected an aston- end along the Oregon border. percent of California was still former FBI Director James to seek a president’s ouster if Committee plans to conduct ishing turnaround — at least for But this week marks the first classified as suffering from mod- Comey was fired in May 2017, they believe the person is unfit oversight into these discussions now — from a severe, prolonged time since mid-December of erate to severe drought. officials at the department, for office. and related matters.” 12 AMERICAS / CLASSIFIEDS SATURDAY 16 MARCH 2019

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US President Donald Trump displays his veto in response to the congressional rebuke on border emergency at the Oval Office of the White House, in Washington, DC, yesterday. Trump vetoes measure on emergency order

BLOOMBERG WASHINGTON

President Donald Trump issued Trump tweeted that the measure “would OPEN his first veto yesterday, rejecting Congress’s effort to cancel his BORDERS while increasing Crime, Drugs, and declaration of a national emer- Trafficking in our Country and thank all of the gency to pay for a wall on the Strong Republicans who voted to support Border US-Mexico border, a centrepiece of his 2016 campaign. Security and our desperately needed WALL!” The congressional resolution puts Americans in “grave continue with his plan to tap Congress refuses to provide.” danger,” Trump said just before money budgeted for the Pen- The resolution’s ability to signing the veto in the Oval tagon, though Democratic state clear both chambers of Congress Office, where he was joined by attorneys general and outside could assist lawsuits arguing the family members of crime victims environmental groups have filed declaration represents a sepa- and law enforcement officials. lawsuits in a bid to block the ration of powers violation. The measure — which project. The Senate’s 59-41 vote cleared the Senate with support The president likely will use Thursday was short of the 67 from a dozen Republicans — the issue to hammer Democrats needed to override a veto. The dealt a political setback to the in the 2020 presidential cam- House voted 245-182 for the res- president by seeking to block his paign. He has repeatedly accused olution on February 26, far below effort to free up additional the party of allowing criminals the two-thirds majority. If all 435 federal funds for the wall. But the and drugs to cross the southern House seats were filled and eve- Senate vote Thursday and the border, while Democrats said the ryone voted, a two-thirds House vote last month were well president manufactured a crisis majority would be 290 votes. short of the support needed to for political gain. Before the veto, Trump override Trump’s veto. Ahead of Thursday’s Senate tweeted that the measure “would The Senate measure marked vote, some Republicans joined OPEN BORDERS while the second rebuke of Trump by Democrats in arguing that increasing Crime, Drugs, and lawmakers in as many days. On Trump’s use of emergency Trafficking in our Country. I Wednesday, the GOP-controlled powers would erode the consti- thank all of the Strong Repub- chamber passed a measure tutional prerogative of Congress licans who voted to support seeking to withdraw US military to appropriate federal dollars. Border Security and our desper- support for the Saudi-led mil- ‘This check on the executive ately needed WALL!” itary campaign in Yemen. is a source of our freedom,” said The White House worked to Trump sought an end-run Tennessee Republican Senator limit Republican defections around lawmakers to use $3.6bn Lamar Alexander, who backed ahead of the Senate vote, with in Pentagon construction funds the resolution. ‘Any appreciation Trump repeatedly referring to for the border wall after Con- for our structure of government the measure as a Democratic gress refused to provide more means that no president should political gambit and saying that than $1.4bn. By vetoing the con- be able to use the National Emer- supporting it could hurt GOP gressional resolution, Trump can gencies Act to spend money that senators politically. US diplomats leave Caracas US to impose visa curbs on ANATOLIA Guaido, who declared himself WASHINGTON interim president in January. ICC personnel The diplomats who The US said it has completed the withdrew from Venezuela will REUTERS withdrawal of its diplomatic continue their work “from other WASHINGTON staff from Venezuela but called locations, where they will con- the move “temporary” amid the tinue to help manage the flow The United States will impose Latin American nation’s ongoing of humanitarian assistance to visa restrictions on people humanitarian and political crisis. the Venezuelan people and responsible for any Interna- Secretary of State Mike support the democratic actors tional Criminal Court (ICC) Pompeo confirmed the devel- bravely resisting tyranny,” probe, a move aimed at opments in a statement, Pompeo said. preventing the court from stressing Washington will con- “We look forward to pursuing the US and its allies tinue its support for Venezuelan resuming our presence once the on Afghanistan, Secretary of National Assembly leader Juan transition to democracy begins.” State Mike Pompeo said. The Trump administration American Airlines halts flights in September said that if the court launched a probe of war crimes in Afghanistan, it would consider to Caracas and Maracaibo banning ICC judges and prose- REUTERS A number of airlines have cutors from entering the US. CARACAS stopped their flights to the South Washington took the first American country because of step yesterday with Pompeo’s American Airlines Group Inc said security concerns and disputes announcement. it has temporarily suspended its over money they say the Ven- “I’m announcing a policy of operations into Caracas and ezuelan government owes US visa restrictions on those indi- Maracaibo, after its pilots union them.“Our corporate security viduals directly responsible for urged its workers to deny trips team has a collaborative part- any ICC investigation of US per- to Venezuela in the wake of a nership with all of our union sonnel,” Pompeo said. “These travel advisory issued by the US leaders and we will continue to visa restrictions may also be used State Department. do so to evaluate the situation to deter ICC efforts to pursue The department cited civil in Venezuela,” the airline said allied personnel, including unrest, poor health and arbi- in a statement, adding that Israelis, without allies’ consent.” trary arrest and detention of US American will not operate to “These visa restrictions will citizens in Venezuela for issuing countries it does not consider not be the end of our efforts. the advisory on March 12. safe. We’re prepared to take addi- tional steps.” 20 MORNING BREAK SATURDAY 16 MARCH 2019

PRAYER TIMINGS FAJR 04. 27 AM Chief of Amiri Diwan inaugurates first SHOROOK 05. 43 AM

ZUHR 11. 43 AM MAGHRIB 05. 45 PM phase of Al Houara Resort in Morocco ASR 03. 08 PM ISHA 07. 15 PM QNA of the project, expressing his con- TANGIER fidence. The Hilton Tangier Al WEATHER TODAY Houara has 304 rooms divided into Chief of the Amiri Diwan, H E a presidential suite, 17 luxury Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin suites, 236 hotel rooms and 50 Abdul Aziz Al Thani, yesterday hotel apartment (studio and 2 inaugurated the first phase of bedroom apartments). The resort Qatari Diar’s Al Houara resort in features a variety of events for a the Kingdom of Morocco’s total area of 2,300 square meters, Tangier. which can accommodate up to The inauguration was 1,500 people at the same time, as attended by Morocco’s Minister well as 10 meeting rooms equipped of Tourism, Air Transport, Hand- with state-of-the-art equipment icraft and Social Economy, and tools. Mohamed Sajid; Governor of One of the most important Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima facilities of the hotel are the three region, Mohamed Mhidia; and a international restaurants with dif- number of ranking officials from ferent cuisines equipped to receive Qatari Diar and from Morocco’s Officials at the inauguration of the first phase of Qatari Diar’s Al Houara Resort in Tangier. approximately 418 guests at the economic, tourism and same time. There is also a SPA investment sectors. The Morocco’s Minister of Tourism it currently has, and to develop more managed by Eforea, a gym, The project’s first phase includes said that the project is a great addition of its assets and investments around swimming pools, children area to the construction of a Hilton Luxury to tourism in the Kingdom of Morocco the world. He stressed that completing ensure the family can enjoy the most Hotel and an 18-hole golf course. The and in the state of Tangier in particular the first phase of the Houara resort is luxurious experience in Morocco. Houara Resort is one of the world’s and a clear indication of the depth of a new achievement added to the com- The project is within 20 minutes leading tourism projects with an area the Qatari-Moroccan relations. He pany’s records, and added that it also drive from the center of Tangier and of 234,000 hectares and embodies the thanked Qatari Diar for completing the helps the State of Qatar make its mark 10 minutes away from its Interna- strength of brotherly relations between first phase of the project, and added on the tourism sector in the Kingdom tional Airport. It has 2.5km of water- o o the two countries and peoples. that they were ready to help face any of Morocco. front that includes residential and 17 C 26 C The opening of this phase comes challenges facing the completion of He added that the features of the touristic properties on the beach. The within the new strategic plan of the the project. project made it a landmark in real golf course was designed by golf Minimum Maximum project announced by the CEO of For his part, Al Attiyah said that estate development around the world, players Graham Marsh and Vijay Misty to foggy at places at first becomes Qatari Diar, Abdullah bin Hamad Al the company is laser-focused on particularly in tourism investment. He Singh. It is managed by Troon, the moderate temperature daytime with scat- Attiyah, in his first visit to the project’s becoming a market leader in its highlighted that the achievement made international Golf and club man- tered clouds, relatively cold by night. site last October. It also demonstrates regional market, and on offering high yesterday comes, despite previous agement, development and marketing

HIGH TIDE 00:53 – 10:25 LOW TIDE 08:19 – 18:00 Qatari Diar’s ability to deliver inter- quality lifestyle and innovations in challenges, within the framework of company. The infrastructure in terms Courtesy: Qatar Meteorology Department national projects efficiently and effec- real estate development. He added the plans set by the company. He paid of roads and sanitation were com- tively within its pre-defined delivery that the company was in a race tribute to the Moroccan side for their pleted as well. The SPA and the golf plans. against time to finish all the projects cooperation to ensure the completion course are also open.

Qumra 2019 delegates along with DFI officials at the meet-and-greet event at the Museum of Islamic Art, yesterday. Qumra 2019 continues to encourage stories and voices of emerging talent

THE PENINSULA Speaking to delegates and the film- remain optimistic and hopeful – and Qumra, which is just one of the many DOHA makers behind the Qumra Projects at to revive our souls.” initiatives we organise at DFI to help this year’s meet-and-greet event held Elia Suleiman, Artistic Advisor at emerging and aspiring filmmakers. I Airbus trials The Chief Executive Officer of the Doha yesterday at the Museum of Islamic DFI, also spoke at the event. He said: am so pleased to welcome all the new Film Institute (DFI), Fatma Hassan Art, Alremaihi highlighted the impor- “Qumra is a fantastic initiative and filmmakers to this year’s Qumra and drone delivery Alremaihi, welcomed delegates to the tance of initiatives like Qumra in each year it gets bigger and better. I hope that they take full advantage of fifth edition of Qumra, a one-of-a-kind helping to bring bold new voices to am looking forward to spending the the experience of our Qumra Masters film initiative that seeks to provide cinema, especially in the Arab world. next few days as a visitor finding out and other industry experts who have to ships mentorship, nurturing, and hands-on She said: “I am proud that Qumra about these new and exciting projects.” come here to Doha to support them.” AFP development for the next generation continues to be a unique platform for Yesterday also saw the first Qumra The first Qumra Talk will be held SINGAPORE of filmmakers from Qatar and around learning, inspiration, and progress for Masters screening– a showcase of films today at 5pm featuring Franklin Leonard, the world, taking place in Doha until filmmakers and industry professionals. presented by this year’s Qumra Masters. the renowned film development exec- Airbus yesterday began trials of drones March 20. I urge emerging filmmakers to con- A packed audience enjoyed a screening utive and founder and CEO of The Black delivering parcels to ships anchored off- Qumra 2019 brings together more tinue to participate in events such as of 2019 Qumra Master Agnès Varda’s List – an innovative network that has shore in Singapore, as the high-tech city than 150 delegates including film- Qumra, which is an important space The Gleaners and I – a documentary connected more than 400 scripts with rolls out the devices for an array of tasks. makers and industry professionals for the development of authentic per- about French subcultures by the French buyers and distributors. The second Singapore is aiming to use drones for from over 32 countries to support the spectives and independent thought. It New Wave cinema legend. Qumra Masters screening – Guillermo parcel delivery, inspecting buildings, pro- development of 36 projects in various is up to you to ensure that your true Hanaa Issa, Director of Strategy del Toro’s Pan’s Labyrinth – takes place viding security and other jobs, and is stages of development by first- and voice is heard – not one that is skewed and Development DFI and Qumra at 7pm. 2019 Qumra Master Eugenio working with companies and regulators second-time filmmakers from 19 by what others want to hear. We need Deputy Director, said: “It is great to Caballero won the Academy Award® in to put the ambitious plan into action. countries. your stories and voices to help us introduce another exciting edition of Production Design for this film. European aerospace giant Airbus said it completed the world’s first shore-to- ship package delivery using a drone. It involved the device carrying a 1.5kg parcel to a vessel anchored 1.5km from the coast. The drone took off from a pier and landed safely on the ship’s deck, deposited its cargo and returned to base, with the entire flight completed within 10 minutes, Airbus said in a statement. Airbus has partnered with maritime logistics and port services firm Wilhelmsen Ships Services for the trials. The drones involved can carry up to four kilos of cargo and navigate autono- mously along a pre-determined flight cor- ridor to vessels as far as three kilometres from the coast. At the moment, deliveries to ships anchored offshore are carried out by small boats. The use of drones can make Kathak performance deliveries to ships up to six times faster, Kathak dance performance by Rani Khanam and group as part of Qatar-India 2019 Year of Culture, at Katara Drama Theater on Thursday. lower delivery costs by up to 90 percent, Pics: Abdul Basit / The Peninsula cut companies’ carbon footprints and is safer, Airbus said.